Imagine a mouthwatering meal that combines the tangy kick of BBQ sauce, the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, and tender chicken - all cooked in a single pot with minimal cleanup. This One Pot Cheddar BBQ Chicken Pasta is about to become your new weeknight dinner obsession! Perfect for busy families, lazy cooks, and anyone craving a delicious meal that comes together in just 35 minutes, this recipe will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, ensuring the entire cooking surface is evenly coated.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the shredded cooked chicken, chicken broth, and BBQ sauce. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low-medium and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer the pasta for approximately 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Check pasta for tenderness and liquid absorption.
- Once pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely, creating a creamy and rich sauce.
- Gently stir the melted cheese into the pasta and chicken, ensuring even distribution and a consistent, glossy texture.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use medium-sized pasta like rotini or penne that can hold onto the sauce well.
- Chicken Prep Hack: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time on preparation.
- Cheese Melting Trick: Let the cheese sit covered for 2-3 minutes off the heat to create a perfectly smooth, creamy sauce.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different BBQ sauce varieties - smoky, sweet, or spicy - to change up the dish's profile.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir occasionally during cooking and use a non-stick skillet or Dutch oven for best results.
- Optional Garnishes: Top with green onions, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 385kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 61mg
