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–+ servings
Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake

Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake for Cozy Family Nights

This Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake is a comforting dish blending tender penne with juicy chicken and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for family nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Bake
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Feel free to swap for any pasta shape you love.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Using leftover rotisserie chicken makes this a breeze.
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Opt for your favorite brand or a homemade version.
  • 1 cup Cream or Milk Try plant-based options for a dairy-free spin.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works well in a pinch.
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can enhance the flavor even more.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Mixing in Monterey Jack can provide a delightful twist.
For the Topping
  • Breadcrumbs (optional) Panko breadcrumbs create extra crunch, or omit for gluten-free option.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine drained penne, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cream, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
  4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and mix well for even flavor distribution.
  5. Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the pasta mixture.
  7. If using breadcrumbs, heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the breadcrumbs until golden brown. Sprinkle over the cheese layer.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  9. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake is perfect for using leftover chicken and pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.

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