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Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake

Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake gives creamy, smoky comfort

  • Author: Jordan Reed
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake combines tender smoked chicken, melted cheddar, and tangy BBQ sauce tossed with pasta for a hearty, family‑friendly casserole. This easy, oven‑baked dish delivers smoky flavor and creamy texture in minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. Serve piping hot with a golden cheese crust and enjoy a comforting, protein‑rich dinner that’s sure to become a household favorite. Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced, satisfying dinn

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 2 cups shredded smoked chicken
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the dish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9‑by‑13‑inch baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened; season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl combine cooked pasta, shredded smoked chicken, BBQ sauce, sautéed vegetables, and half of the cheddar; mix well.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared dish, spread evenly, and top with remaining cheddar.
  5. Bake for 25‑30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden; optionally broil 2 minutes for extra crust.
  6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra moisture control
  • pat smoked chicken dry before shredding. Adding a tablespoon of grape juice to the BBQ sauce brightens the flavor. Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes if the cheese browns too quickly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Family Dinners
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Smoky BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta Bake, easy chicken pasta bake, comfort food casserole, family dinner ideas, quick baked pasta, smoky BBQ recipes, cheddar cheese pasta, weeknight meals, hearty pasta bake, chicken casserole recipe

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Find it online: https://www.recipearo.com/smoky-bbq-chicken-cheddar-pasta-bake-gives-creamy-smoky-comfort/