Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: one pot barbecue chicken pasta! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. It’s not only super easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. I love how everything cooks together in just one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash—thank goodness! The tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that rich, tangy barbecue sauce create a comforting blend that hits the spot every time. I can have this on the table in about 30 minutes, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients List
For this delicious one pot barbecue chicken pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can dive right into cooking this delightful dish! It all comes together so quickly, and trust me, you’ll love the flavors that come from these simple ingredients.
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your one pot barbecue chicken pasta:
- First, heat that delicious olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, so your chicken sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Next, add your diced chicken to the pot. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly—you don’t want any pieces getting stuck!
- Once your chicken is looking good, toss in the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté those for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. Oh, the smell is already amazing!
- Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in the penne pasta, barbecue sauce, and chicken broth. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is coated in that luscious sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it—stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir and you’re ready to serve!
And there you have it! A fantastic, hearty meal in just one pot. Just remember to watch the pasta while it cooks, as you want it perfectly al dente. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Nutritional Information Section
Before we dig into this delicious meal, let me share a little bit about the nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. For each serving of one pot barbecue chicken pasta, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein to keep you fueled throughout your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Easy cleanup since it’s all made in one pot.
- Flavorful and satisfying, with that perfect barbecue kick.
- Ideal for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal fast.
- Gluten-free option makes it accessible for everyone!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this one pot barbecue chicken pasta, let me share some of my best tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Customize your barbecue sauce: Don’t hesitate to adjust the barbecue sauce to match your taste! If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey or brown sugar. Prefer a kick? Try a spicier sauce or throw in some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy goodness: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving. Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully and adds that creamy texture we all love!
- Perfect pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You want it al dente, so taste it a minute or two before the time is up!
- Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition and color. It’s a great way to sneak in extra greens!
- Leftovers magic: If you have leftovers, they can be even more flavorful the next day! Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
With these tips, you’ll be a one pot barbecue chicken pasta pro in no time. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your one pot barbecue chicken pasta! Here are some creative variations that will keep this dish exciting:
- Different Pasta Types: Swap out the penne for your favorite pasta! Fusilli, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta can give you a new texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different pasta shapes can vary!
- Veggie Boost: Add in some extra veggies for a pop of color and nutrition! Zucchini, corn, or even cherry tomatoes can brighten up the dish and make it even more satisfying. Just toss them in when you add the bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you’re cooking the chicken. It’ll add a nice warmth that pairs beautifully with the barbecue sauce!
- BBQ Chicken Alfredo: For a creamy twist, mix in some heavy cream or a splash of milk along with the barbecue sauce. This gives it a more indulgent, Alfredo-style feel that’s oh-so-delicious!
- Protein Swap: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! Try using ground turkey, beef, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile. Each protein brings its own unique taste to the dish.
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative and make this one pot barbecue chicken pasta your own. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorites!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, one pot barbecue chicken pasta stores beautifully, and I’ve got all the tips to keep it tasting just as amazing!
First things first, let your pasta cool down a bit before transferring it into an airtight container. This helps prevent any excess moisture from making it soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to keep those delicious flavors locked in!
Now, when it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just add the pasta to a pan over low to medium heat, and stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up. This keeps it from drying out and helps maintain that lovely, saucy goodness. Stir occasionally until heated through, and you’re good to go!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps retain moisture), and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s nice and warm. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might end up with a rubbery texture!
And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips to ensure your one pot barbecue chicken pasta is just as delightful the next day! Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious one pot barbecue chicken pasta, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! I love pairing it with a few simple sides that complement all those rich flavors. Here are some of my favorites:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad is the perfect contrast to the hearty pasta. I usually toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It adds freshness that brightens everything up!
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s great for soaking up any extra barbecue sauce left on your plate. Just slice up a baguette, slather on some garlic butter, and toast until golden. Yum!
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots are fantastic options. Steam them lightly so they stay vibrant and crunchy. They not only add color to your plate but also pack in some extra nutrients!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta. You can go for a classic creamy slaw or a vinegar-based one for a lighter touch.
- Fruit Salad: For something sweet on the side, a fruit salad with seasonal fruits is a lovely addition! It adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory dish.
These sides are super easy to prepare and will elevate your one pot barbecue chicken pasta experience. Mix and match according to your mood, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Print
One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta: Quick, Delicious Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This one pot barbecue chicken pasta combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich barbecue sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onion and bell peppers; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in penne pasta, barbecue sauce, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the barbecue sauce to your taste.
- You can add cheese on top for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot barbecue chicken pasta