Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta
A delightful dish that balances the tangy sweetness of honey barbecue sauce with creamy cheddar cheese and tender chicken over pasta, perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650kcal
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta) These shaped noodles hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded Adds protein while soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Salted water for boiling Essential for flavoring the pasta.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Provides a robust depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Lends a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Salt and black pepper to taste Essential seasoning.
- 2 tbsp butter Adds richness to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp flour Helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup milk Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping) Makes everything cheesy and satisfying.
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce The sweet and tangy element that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream Adds a smooth and creamy texture.
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat For those who like a little extra spice.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set aside.
Preparing Chicken
- If using pre-cooked chicken, season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. For fresh chicken, prepare it according to your preference, then set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk until golden and smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the honey BBQ sauce and sour cream to the cheese mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated. Adjust seasoning as preferred.
- Fold in the seasoned chicken and cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated with the luscious sauce.
Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into the hot pasta. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or diced bell peppers into the sauce. Optional extras include cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables. For smoky flavor, try using smoked chicken instead of plain cooked chicken.