Go Back
BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and al dente rotini pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, showcasing a medley of vibrant colors and textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pan meal is incredibly satisfying and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

Discover the delicious BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet, a one-pan wonder that's perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. This hearty dish features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and rotini pasta, all coated in smoky BBQ sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s customizable to fit any taste preferences or dietary needs. Learn about essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and presentation tips to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's fully cooked through and exhibits a golden-brown exterior.

      Combine the Ingredients: With the chicken cooked, carefully stir in the BBQ sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook this mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and the BBQ sauce to envelop the chicken evenly.

        Incorporate the Pasta: Gently fold the drained rotini pasta into the skillet with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly mixed and coated with the rich BBQ sauce.

          Melt the Cheese: Scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling enticingly.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top and add fresh cilantro leaves, if using, for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet hot, and enjoy this deliciously unique meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                Presentation Tips: For a beautiful serving, dish the pasta into shallow bowls and top with an extra sprinkle of green onions and cilantro. You can also drizzle some more BBQ sauce on top for extra flair!