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One-Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta

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This One-Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and easy dinner recipe, combining smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness in a single pot. It's a quick, family-friendly meal with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Try this hearty dish today and enjoy a comforting pasta meal with a bold barbecue twist!

Ingredients

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size chunks)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup skim milk
  • 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 12 oz uncooked whole wheat pasta (e.g., rotini)
  • 5 tablespoons barbecue sauce (recommendation: Stubbs Original)
  • 4 oz 50% reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup cooked and crumbled beef

Instructions

  • Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the crumbled beef until browned and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  • Season the Chicken: Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Coat the chicken evenly with this seasoning.
  • Cook the Chicken: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium, add chopped onions, and sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Add Liquids & Pasta: Pour in chicken broth, skim milk, diced tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it's submerged.
  • Cook the Pasta: Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and absorbs most of the liquid.
  • Combine Everything: Uncover and stir in the cooked chicken, barbecue sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled beef. Cook on low heat until the cheese melts and the dish is heated through.
  • Serve Hot: Enjoy this delicious pasta on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check that all ingredients (like BBQ sauce and broth) are gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap out skim milk for plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese.
  • Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.