Chef Mitchell preparing BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta at a friend's barbecue. The combination of flavors was irresistible, and I knew I had to recreate it in my kitchen. After some experimentation, I perfected my version, balancing the BBQ sauce and cheese for optimal flavor. Now, it’s a staple in my home, loved by family and friends alike."

I am an experienced chef with over a decade of expertise in American cuisine. My passion lies in creating comforting and delicious dinner recipes that bring people together. I have developed a wide range of dishes that celebrate classic flavors while incorporating modern twists.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta served on a plate

Why This BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta Recipe Works

This BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The smoky BBQ sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and creamy cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile for different tastes. Plus, it's a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

The technique of combining the pasta with the BBQ sauce and cheese at the end ensures that every bite is infused with flavor. Baking it briefly at the end allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a satisfying crust. This method not only enhances the taste but also adds an appealing texture to the dish.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before cooking. A good sear on the chicken will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Also, consider using a high-quality BBQ sauce; it greatly impacts the final taste. Lastly, let the pasta rest for a few minutes after baking to help set the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate the dish. When you’re ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or gatherings.

If you need a substitute for BBQ sauce, you can use a combination of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, you can use a homemade BBQ sauce made from tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices to achieve the desired taste without store-bought sauce.

BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta is done when the top is bubbly and golden brown, and the cheese has melted. You can also check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. A fork should easily pierce through the pasta and chicken, indicating they are cooked through.

Yes, you can freeze BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta. Once it has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider offering grilled vegetables or corn on the cob as side dishes.

BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat, as repeated heating can affect the texture and flavor.

Yes, you can make BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta in advance. Prepare the dish and refrigerate it without baking. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the refrigerator, allowing extra time if needed for it to heat through completely. This is a great option for meal prepping or hosting.

The best way to reheat BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta is in the oven, covered with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough sauce.

Solution: To fix this, add a little more sauce or a splash of chicken broth while reheating to moisten the dish. Always keep an eye on cooking times to prevent drying out.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the top is not crispy enough, it may need more time in the oven.

Solution: To achieve a crispier top, broil the pasta for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, ensure to follow cooking times on the pasta package and taste it a minute before the time is up for perfect al dente.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center is undercooked, it may not have heated through adequately in the baking process.

Recovery: If this happens, return the dish to the oven for a bit longer, covering it with foil to allow it to heat evenly without burning the top.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if it is left in for too long.

Prevention: To avoid burning, monitor your dish closely, especially during the last few minutes of baking, and adjust the temperature as needed.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, add a bit more pasta or a dollop of sour cream to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: For a bland dish, incorporate more spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta

Essential Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta

Key ingredients for BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta include chicken, pasta, and a variety of cheeses. Using high-quality ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture. Fresh chicken will give you a tender bite, while a mix of cheddar and Parmesan adds depth to the dish. Don't skimp on the BBQ sauce; the flavor is essential to this recipe.

When choosing your ingredients, opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for richer flavors. The type of BBQ sauce can also greatly influence the overall taste, so pick one that you love. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish, adding brightness and a pop of color.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Use skinless, boneless chicken thighs or breasts for the best results. They stay moist during cooking and absorb flavors well. For added depth, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for an hour before cooking.
  • Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or rotini. Ensure you cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce and baked.
  • Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese provides a delicious flavor profile. Grate your cheese fresh for the best melting quality. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for different flavors.
Cooking process for BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta is straightforward yet rewarding. Begin by cooking your pasta to the desired tenderness, then sauté chicken until it’s golden brown. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and veggies with the BBQ sauce for an explosion of flavor.

Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt perfectly, creating a comforting casserole. The key is to monitor the cooking times to ensure everything is cooked just right, giving you a delicious, creamy pasta dish.

Key Technique for Perfect BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta

A crucial technique for this dish lies in the timing of adding ingredients. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it with the chicken and sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. Also, layering the cheese properly can help achieve a beautifully melted and bubbly top.

BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
    Choose your favorite brand
  • 1 cup sour cream
    Adds creaminess
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    For a cheesy flavor
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For a rich finish
  • 1 cup diced onions
    Adds sweetness
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
    For color and crunch

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 12 oz penne pasta
    Cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For sautéing
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    Optional for heat
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta

    Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.

  3. Sauté Vegetables

    Add diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  4. Combine Ingredients

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.

  5. Add Cream and Cheese

    Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.

  6. Transfer to Baking Dish

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.

  7. Top with Parmesan

    Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.

  8. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To ensure the best quality, store any leftover BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve BBQ Chicken Cheese Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy with your favorite beverage to complement the flavors.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other ingredients like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicy BBQ sauce.