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Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake

Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake for Cozy Family Nights

Enjoy the delightful combination of smoky BBQ and creamy cheddar in this Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake—a perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Cook until al dente.
For the Chicken Mixture
  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Leftover rotisserie chicken works great.
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Choose your favorite brand.
  • 1 cup Cream or Milk Non-dairy alternative like cashew cream can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Enhances the BBQ flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for bold flavor.
For the Cheese and Topping
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar recommended.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust based on BBQ sauce.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Optional for crunch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring salted water to a boil, add penne pasta, and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked penne, shredded chicken, and BBQ sauce. Add cream or milk, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Grease a 9×13 inch dish and transfer the mixture, spreading it evenly.
  6. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top, then add the remaining cheese.
  7. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add breadcrumbs, and sauté until golden brown.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes and garnish with chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use quality BBQ sauce and cook pasta al dente to avoid sogginess. Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.

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