If you are craving a dish that brings together the smoky tang of barbecue with the comforting heartiness of pasta, this BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a soul-satisfying blend of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and melty cheese all coated in a luscious BBQ tomato sauce. Every bite bursts with vibrant color and flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a satisfying, restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and character of this dish. From smoky bacon to tangy BBQ sauce and fresh veggies, every element adds something special to the BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe.
- 4 strips bacon (cut into small pieces): Adds a crispy, smoky foundation that enhances every bite.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and depth as it softens gently in bacon fat.
- 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped): Brings bright color and a subtle crunch to the mix.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped or shredded): Your hearty protein that soaks up all the saucy goodness.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and helps lift up the flavors.
- 1 (10 fluid ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (with juices): Brings a perfect tangy zest with just the right hint of heat.
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite): The star ingredient delivering that signature smoky, sweet, and tangy punch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella/cheddar blend: Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Al dente pasta that acts as the perfect vehicle for the rich sauce.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Bacon
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for your pasta. Cooking the pasta al dente according to package directions ensures it’s perfectly tender without getting mushy once combined with the sauce. While the pasta cooks, chop the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, then fry over medium-high heat until it’s irresistibly crispy. This step infuses the dish with that unbeatable smoky flavor and creates bacon fat to cook your veggies perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Peppers
Once the bacon is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Leave about a tablespoon of that flavorful bacon fat in the pan—it’s liquid gold for sautéing. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and softened. Then toss in the red bell pepper, cooking for a few more minutes until it’s tender but still vibrant. These veggies add layers of sweetness and texture that balance the dish.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of Ro-tel diced tomatoes and green chilies, making sure to include the juices. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan where those tasty browned bits hide—they add depth and richness to your sauce. Reducing the heat to medium creates the perfect environment for flavors to blend without burning.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Bacon, and BBQ Sauce
Now stir in the cooked chicken and crispy bacon pieces, followed by your favorite BBQ sauce. This combination is the heart and soul of the BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe, infusing every bite with smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. Let the mixture warm through, allowing the chicken to soak up all the saucy goodness and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Toss with Pasta
Just before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend. The cheese melts into a luscious creamy layer that binds everything together perfectly. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or dish, sprinkle the cheese on top, and pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until bubbly and golden. Finally, toss in the drained pasta, making sure every noodle is coated with the bubbling BBQ chicken sauce for a show-stopping presentation.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top brings a pop of fresh color and a mild oniony flavor that brightens the dish. For a bit of extra zing, you could also add a light drizzle of ranch dressing or a few dashes of hot sauce. These little touches elevate the presentation and taste without any extra fuss.
Side Dishes
This BBQ chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the main dish. Cornbread or garlic bread are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that smoky, cheesy goodness. A tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch and cool contrast that makes the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the BBQ chicken pasta in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins right from the oven for a cozy personal touch. Another great idea is to layer it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and broil it until bubbly for a family-style feast. Even turning the leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or baked pasta cups can highlight the versatility of the BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BBQ chicken pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more delicious. Just give it a quick stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta dish for up to 2 months. For best results, store it in a freezer-safe container and leave out the cheese topping, adding fresh cheese when reheating. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often so the cheese melts evenly and the sauce doesn’t separate. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help loosen the texture and bring back that fresh sauce feel. Avoid overheated microwaving which can dry the pasta and toughen the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional elbow macaroni or penne work great, feel free to use fusilli, rotini, or even shell pasta. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up nicely when mixed with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and bacon and use plant-based protein like grilled tofu or tempeh, or even hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
What is the best BBQ sauce to use?
Since BBQ sauce is the flavor star here, pick one you love! Whether it’s sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy depends on your preference. Experimenting with different brands or homemade sauces can bring exciting variations to the recipe.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving. Keeping the components separate until the last moment helps keep the pasta from getting mushy.
How spicy is the dish with the canned Ro-tel tomatoes and green chilies?
The heat level is usually mild to moderate depending on the Ro-tel brand. You can adjust spiciness by choosing a mild or hot variety, or add some fresh chili flakes if you want a bit more kick.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite in my kitchen, perfect for when you want to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its smoky, cheesy, and vibrant personality makes every bite a delight. I encourage you to try it out, tweak it to your taste, and most importantly, enjoy the cozy satisfaction of this home-cooked treat. Trust me, once you take one forkful, it’s going to be on your dinner rotation for good!
Print
BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Chicken Pasta combines smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a vibrant mix of vegetables in a flavorful BBQ sauce, perfectly tossed with al dente pasta and melted cheese for a comforting, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 4 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped or shredded)
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
Liquids and Sauces
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 (10 fluid ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies (with juices)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella/cheddar blend
Others
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and bacon. Boil a salted pot of water and cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Meanwhile, cut bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears and fry over medium-high heat in a skillet until crispy.
- Drain bacon and reserve fat. Remove crispy bacon from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for sautéing.
- Sauté onion and red bell pepper. In the remaining bacon grease, sauté the chopped onion over medium heat for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional few minutes until tender.
- Add liquids and deglaze the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate their flavor into the sauce.
- Add chicken, bacon, and BBQ sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the cooked chicken, crispy bacon pieces, and BBQ sauce. Allow the mixture to warm through thoroughly.
- Incorporate cheese and combine with pasta. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese just before serving, or sprinkle on top and cover the pan or put under a broiler briefly to melt. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Toss the cheesy BBQ chicken mixture with the drained pasta and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce to customize the flavor.
- For a smoky kick, consider using smoked paprika in the sautéed vegetables.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
