Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal cleanup? Meet the One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta—a mouthwatering fusion of tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all made in just one pot! This recipe not only promises to delight your taste buds but also saves you time and effort in the kitchen. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a hearty meal that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how simple it is to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Season diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the heated pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
- Add uncooked pasta directly into the skillet with the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the pasta and chicken, stirring to combine and ensure all pasta is submerged in liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Check pasta for doneness - it should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt.
- Stir to incorporate melted cheese and ensure even distribution of sauce and ingredients.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta can work, shorter shapes like penne or rotini hold onto the sauce better, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when seasoning the chicken. This step is crucial for building a robust flavor foundation.
- Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while the pasta simmers. If it’s too high, the pasta may stick to the bottom of the pot, so adjust as needed.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix up the barbecue sauce! Try different flavors like honey barbecue or spicy chipotle to customize the dish to your liking.
- Add Vegetables: For a nutritious boost, consider adding veggies like bell peppers or corn during the cooking process. They’ll add color and additional flavor!
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the sauce thicken and makes for a more cohesive dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving can elevate the dish visually and add a fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg
