Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta
A delightful and comforting dish featuring succulent chicken, creamy cheddar, and sweet honey BBQ sauce combined with pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 600kcal
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Essentials
- 12 oz penne pasta The pasta's tubular shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- salt to taste salted water for boiling Essential for cooking pasta to the right al dente texture.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded Tender chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder A flavorful base that enhances the dish.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Adds warmth and a slight smokiness to the overall flavor.
- salt to taste salt and black pepper Essential seasoning for a balanced dish.
- 2 tbsp butter Brings richness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic appeal.
- 1 tbsp flour Helps to thicken the sauce for a creamy texture.
- 1 cup milk Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melts into a gooey perfection that enhances flavors.
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce The star of this dish, delivering sweet and savory notes.
- 1/4 cup sour cream Adds a tangy richness that complements the BBQ sauce.
- a pinch cayenne Optional for those who enjoy a little kick in their meal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- In a medium bowl, season your cooked chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a gentle toss to ensure the seasoning adheres well. If using leftover chicken, simply warm it up before proceeding.
Cooking the Sauce
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until it turns golden, forming a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, allowing it to thicken slightly as it combines with the roux. Continue stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Once the milk has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy texture that you can’t resist.
- Pour in the honey BBQ sauce and sour cream, stirring thoroughly until everything is creamy and well blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Final Assembly
- Fold in the chicken and cooked pasta, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated in the luscious sauce.
- Top the dish with extra cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the hot pasta for added flavor. Serve immediately while warm!
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken for quicker prep. Add vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Finish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for color and freshness.