Name: Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 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)

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Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta is a bold and comforting one-skillet dish that combines tender chicken, rich cheddar cheese, and a sweet-and-smoky BBQ cream sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. With its blend of sharp, creamy, and tangy flavors, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, Tangy Flavor: The honey BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky depth that complements the sharp cheddar.
Creamy, Cheesy Sauce: A rich blend of cream and cheese creates a velvety coating for every bite.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
One-Pan Convenience: Fewer dishes and a simple cleanup.
Family-Friendly: Familiar flavors make this a hit with adults and kids alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

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 and 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)

directions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 6–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the honey BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and smoked paprika. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Different Protein: Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp, turkey, or grilled tofu.
Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in steamed broccoli, corn, or sautéed bell peppers.
Bacon Boost: Top with crumbled bacon for added crunch and smokiness.

storage/reheating

Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well. Add it in step 6 to warm through.

Is this dish very sweet?

The honey BBQ adds sweetness, but it’s balanced by the sharp cheddar and garlic. Adjust sauce quantity to your taste.

What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

Use your favorite honey BBQ sauce. For a tangier version, try a mix of sweet and smoky or add a splash of vinegar.

Can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly to lighten the dish.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works best for holding the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently, adding cream as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce and broth are gluten-free.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Stir continuously when adding cheese, and keep heat low to ensure a smooth sauce.

Can I bake it for a casserole-style version?

Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.

What should I serve with it?

Pair with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor and creamy texture in every bite. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you crave a comforting, cheesy meal with a sweet and smoky twist.

Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4-servings

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Description

This Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta blends smoky sweetness with rich, cheesy goodness for the ultimate comfort meal. Tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and a creamy BBQ sauce come together in one irresistible pasta dish ready in just 30 minutes!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in honey BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Add cheddar cheese and smoked paprika, stirring until sauce is smooth and melted.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss cooked pasta and chicken in the sauce until everything is well coated.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to cut down prep time. Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American