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Plate of creamy Honey BBQ Chicken and cheddar pasta garnished with herbs
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Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta

A delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors, this pasta dish combines tender chicken with a sweet honey BBQ sauce, perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Family-Friendly
Keyword: BBQ Chicken, Cheddar Cheese, comfort food, Creamy Pasta, Quick Dinner
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 540kcal

Ingredients

Pasta and Cooking Essentials

  • 12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta) The perfect vehicle for holding the creamy sauce.
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded Tender and juicy, this protein is the star of the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for added flavor.
  • 2 tbsp butter For sautéing and creating a luscious sauce.
  • 1 tbsp flour To thicken the sauce.
  • 1 cup milk Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce The sweet and tangy twist that elevates the dish.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream For added creaminess and tang.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder For that aromatic kick.
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper to taste Essential seasonings to enhance the dish.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne (optional) A spicy touch for those who like a bit of zing.

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping) Melty goodness that ties everything together.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Season the cooked chicken breast with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If using leftovers, warm them up in a pan for extra flavor.

Making the Sauce

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Whisk until golden and slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in the milk, allowing it to thicken slightly to create a creamy base.
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a smooth and creamy sauce.
  • Pour in the honey BBQ sauce and sour cream. Stir everything until well blended and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Combining and Serving

  • Fold in the drained pasta and prepared chicken, thoroughly coating everything in the creamy sauce.
  • Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top and allow it to melt into the hot pasta.
  • Serve warm for a delightful family meal.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream.