Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
️ Description:
This Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with the richness of a creamy cheese sauce, tossed with pasta and baked until golden. Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or potluck, it’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a favorite.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Bake:
12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky and slightly sweet)
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/2 cup diced bell pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes (for extra kick)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, red onion (if using), bacon (if using), and any optional vegetables into the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Assemble the bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan) on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 6 servings):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~590 kcal
Protein 32g
Carbohydrates 42g
Fat 33g
Saturated Fat 16g
Cholesterol 110mg
Sodium 780mg
Fiber 2g
Sugar 9g
Note: Nutrition will vary based on brands and add-ins.
Q&A
Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix in.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best as they hold sauce well.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble everything and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready (add 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold).
Q: Can this dish be frozen?
A: Yes, freeze before baking. Wrap tightly. To bake from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Add hot BBQ sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat