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- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 8 oz rigatoni pasta - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (adjust to taste) - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish - Optional: Sliced green onions for additional garnish

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

Warm up your evenings with the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet, a comforting one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, rigatoni pasta, and gooey cheese enveloped in tangy BBQ sauce. This easy-to-make recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also creates perfect moments around the dinner table. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients
  

2 cups rigatoni pasta

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite variety for best flavor)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional: sliced green onions for extra garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot with a generous pinch of salt. Once it's at a rolling boil, add the rigatoni pasta, cooking according to the package directions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat for a moment. Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed a light golden-brown color.

      Add Onion and Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion to the pan. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. Next, stir in the minced garlic and allow it to cook for another minute, until it becomes fragrant and aromatic.

        Combine Pasta and BBQ Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Gently add the cooked rigatoni and BBQ sauce into the skillet with the chicken, onion, and garlic. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure that the pasta is well coated with the savory BBQ sauce.

          Incorporate the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture in the skillet. Stir gently but consistently until the cheese is fully melted and creates a gooey, creamy texture that envelops the pasta and chicken—this should take about 2-3 minutes.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, sliced green onions for an added touch of freshness. Serve the dish hot, and relish the delightful combination of cheesy pasta and BBQ chicken!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings