A Fusion of Flavors with American Roots
One-Pot Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta is a delicious comfort meal that combines the bold, smoky taste of American barbecue with the sweetness of honey and the creaminess of pasta. While pasta originates from Italy, this version is truly American-inspired, born from the love of one-pot meals that are quick, hearty, and family-friendly. The recipe is especially popular in the U.S., where barbecue sauce is a staple in kitchens. Making it in just one pot saves time, reduces cleanup, and ensures the pasta absorbs every layer of flavor directly in the sauce.
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The Power of Honey and BBQ in Cooking
Honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the smokiness of barbecue sauce, while garlic brings depth and savory notes. Combined, they create a unique glaze that clings perfectly to pasta and chicken. BBQ sauce also provides a tangy kick, giving this dish its addictive flavor. Meanwhile, paprika and chili powder enhance the smoky and slightly spicy undertones. Adding mozzarella and Parmesan at the end brings creaminess, tying the flavors together into a comforting, cheesy dish the whole family will love.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This one-pot recipe is both practical and flavorful. Cooking the pasta directly in broth, milk, and barbecue sauce allows the noodles to soak up seasoning, giving the dish a rich, cohesive taste. The honey-garlic BBQ combo transforms a simple chicken pasta into something special, while the cheeses add gooey indulgence. Best of all, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress with minimal effort.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden on all sides.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Pasta
Stir in chicken broth, milk, barbecue sauce, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta
1. Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just skip the initial browning step and add the cooked chicken after the pasta has simmered.
2. What type of pasta is best?
Penne and rotini are ideal since they hold sauce well, but shells or rigatoni also work. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair as it can overcook quickly.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use unsweetened oat milk or almond milk and skip the cheese, or substitute with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
4. How do I make it spicier?
Increase the chili powder, add a dash of cayenne pepper, or use spicy BBQ sauce to give it an extra kick.
5. Does this recipe freeze well?
Yes, but freeze it without the cheese for best results. Reheat on the stove and stir in cheese when ready to serve.