This delicious honey BBQ chicken pasta combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy cheddar sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comfort food recipe feeds the whole family.
What You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce & Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. Drain the water and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and cooks all the way through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Base Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the honey BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then turn the heat down to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until the cheese melts completely and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve while hot.
Recipe Tips for Success
- Cut your chicken into small, even pieces so they cook evenly
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth
- Serve immediately for the best texture
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 560 per serving
- Servings: 4
Why This Recipe Works
This honey BBQ chicken pasta recipe is perfect for families because it combines familiar flavors in one easy dish. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the rich cheddar cheese, while the tender chicken makes it filling and satisfying. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the creamy texture, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
