BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dinner that hits all the right flavor notes, this BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake is your new go-to. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken smothered in smoky barbecue sauce, it is the ultimate family-friendly meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish brings together the best of pasta and BBQ in one satisfying casserole.
Servings 6
Calories 480kcal
Cost $12–$15
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta, any short pasta like penne or rotini
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup diced bell peppers optional, for color and crunch
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Cooking pasta al dente helps it hold up during baking without becoming mushy.
- While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken and smoked paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy BBQ sauce gives the pasta bake its signature richness and tangy flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken and veggie mixture, and the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly. This cheese layer will melt beautifully and create a golden, bubbly top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful touch. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors with your family.
Notes
Use Al Dente Pasta
Cooking the pasta just until al dente prevents it from becoming too soft after baking. It will hold its texture and soak up the creamy sauce nicely. Shred Chicken Evenly
Evenly shredded chicken ensures every bite has a consistent flavor. It also helps the pasta bake cook evenly. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
Letting the bake rest for 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and more cohesive. Customize Your Veggies
Add vegetables you have on hand, like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms. They boost nutrition and add a little extra flavor and texture without overwhelming the dish.
Cooking the pasta just until al dente prevents it from becoming too soft after baking. It will hold its texture and soak up the creamy sauce nicely. Shred Chicken Evenly
Evenly shredded chicken ensures every bite has a consistent flavor. It also helps the pasta bake cook evenly. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
Letting the bake rest for 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and more cohesive. Customize Your Veggies
Add vegetables you have on hand, like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms. They boost nutrition and add a little extra flavor and texture without overwhelming the dish.