Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my one pot barbecue chicken pasta! This recipe is an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot! The juicy chicken, the tangy barbecue sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a way that’s nothing short of magical. Trust me, the flavors blend beautifully, and you’ll love how simple it is to whip up. I remember the first time I made this; my family devoured it in minutes! It’s now a staple in our home, and I bet it will be in yours too!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to make your one pot barbecue chicken pasta shine:
- 2 cups pasta (any shape you like)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium works great)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process a breeze, and it’s half the fun! Enjoy the process!
How to Prepare One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
Alright, let’s get cooking! First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want that oil shimmering but not smoking—perfect for sautéing! Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onions and sliced bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now, it’s time to add the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned all over. Don’t rush this step; you want that beautiful color! Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the barbecue sauce and chicken broth, mixing everything well.
Next, here comes the pasta! Add it right into the pot and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it looks too dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it up warm, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep—ready in just 30 minutes!
- One pot means less cleanup, which is a total win!
- Packed with flavor from the barbecue sauce and tender chicken.
- Versatile: you can use any pasta shape or add your favorite veggies.
- Healthy and satisfying, with protein and fiber in every bite.
- Kid-approved—my family can’t get enough of this dish!
Tips for Success
To make the best one pot barbecue chicken pasta, here are some handy tips! First, don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible. Also, keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers to prevent it from becoming mushy—al dente is the goal! If you notice the sauce getting too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. And remember, seasoning is key! Taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces; a smoky variety can add a whole new layer of yum!
Variations of One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
One of the best things about this one pot barbecue chicken pasta is how easily you can switch it up! If you’re looking for a different protein, try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even some diced turkey—so versatile! For a vegetarian twist, swap in chickpeas or black beans for a hearty, plant-based option. You can also play with the veggies; throw in some zucchini, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition. Feeling adventurous? Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick! The possibilities are endless, and each variation is just as delicious!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving of my one pot barbecue chicken pasta: approximately 450 calories, 10g of fat, 30g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this hearty dish guilt-free!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers of this delicious one pot barbecue chicken pasta, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and flavorful. Enjoy it again!
FAQ Section
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra fiber to your one pot barbecue chicken pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may differ slightly.
What barbecue sauce should I use?
Use your favorite brand or even homemade sauce! I love a sweet and tangy variety, but you can also go for smoky or spicy depending on your taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything and store it in the fridge. Just cook it when you’re ready for a quick meal!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just choose a gluten-free pasta and ensure your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free!
What can I serve with this dish?
This pasta is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal! Consider trying a Greek pasta salad for a refreshing side.
One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta: 5 Savory Secrets to Savor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious one pot barbecue chicken pasta recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers, sauté until soft.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in barbecue sauce and chicken broth.
- Add pasta and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape.
- For spicier flavor, add hot sauce.
- This dish can be topped with cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot barbecue chicken pasta