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Creamy One-Pot BBQ Chicken Pasta

creamy one-pot bbq chicken pasta - featured image

A quick and easy 20-minute dinner recipe combining smoky BBQ chicken with creamy sauce and pasta, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky, slightly sweet)
  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ medium onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and finely chop the onion. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink on the outside but not fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and BBQ sauce, stir to combine. Add uncooked pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with lid, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  6. When pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed, add softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir vigorously until cream cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen. Use cream cheese at room temperature for smooth melting. Stir often during simmer to prevent pasta sticking. Use short, ridged pasta like penne or rotini for best sauce adherence. Can substitute gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cream alternatives for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken pasta, one-pot dinner, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, BBQ chicken recipe