Description

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible one-skillet Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Skillet—a quick dinner idea that’s smoky, creamy, and packed with comfort. This easy recipe combines tender chicken, pasta, sharp cheddar cheese, and a bold BBQ sauce into a dinner that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you’re craving easy comfort food ideas, this dish brings all the flavors of BBQ chicken into a creamy pasta form that the whole family will devour. If you’re on the hunt for a new favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation or want fresh dinner ideas with bold flavor, this cheesy skillet is a must-try.

Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1½ to 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
⅓ cup smoky BBQ sauce
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

If using raw chicken, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season lightly, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Add pasta and bring mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Add cooked chicken and BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
For extra cheesiness, sprinkle more cheddar on top, cover skillet, and let melt for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes