If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, easy-to-make meal that combines smoky flavors, creamy goodness, and a little bit of BBQ love, then One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta is exactly what you need. This dish offers the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and creamy elements all packed into one hearty skillet meal. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for a quick dinner solution, or someone simply craving a flavorful pasta dish, this recipe will not disappoint.
This One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With tender chicken, smoky sausage, and the creamy goodness of BBQ sauce all coming together in one skillet, you’ll find yourself savoring every bite. It’s easy, quick, and oh-so-delicious – perfect for weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook but still want to impress your taste buds and family!
Why You’ll Love One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is ideal for anyone who loves pasta dishes with bold flavors. Here’s why this One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta will quickly become a go-to in your weekly dinner rotation:
-
All-In-One Skillet: No need for multiple pots and pans. Everything comes together in one skillet, which means less cleanup after your meal.
-
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for busy nights when you need something flavorful but don’t have much time to cook.
-
Smoky, Creamy, and Bold: The smoky sausage, tender chicken, and creamy BBQ sauce deliver a perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.
-
Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of more BBQ sauce or prefer extra cheese, this dish is flexible to your preferences.
-
Comfort Food at Its Best: This pasta is filling, rich, and satisfying – just what you need for a cozy night in.
Now, let’s get to the recipe that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds sing with joy!
Ingredients for One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta
Before we dive into the directions, let’s take a look at the ingredients needed for this dish. You’ll need the following:
For the Meat:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Diced into bite-sized pieces, chicken breast is lean and absorbs the smoky flavors of the sausage and BBQ sauce beautifully.
- 2 sausage links (such as smoked sausage) – Slice them up for added smokiness and flavor. Smoked sausage brings a deep, rich taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta – Penne works well in this recipe because its tube shape captures the creamy sauce in every bite.
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to cook the chicken and sausage in the skillet, olive oil adds a nice touch of richness.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Onions bring a subtle sweetness and savory flavor that is essential for the base of this dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic richness, making this dish smell as good as it tastes.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The creamy base that makes this pasta luxurious and velvety in texture.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. The sweet and smoky flavors will perfectly balance the savory meats and pasta.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce and helps it achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the chopped onion and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra garlicky goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season the dish and enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The melty cheese makes the pasta even creamier and more indulgent.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley will add a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Directions to Create One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta. Once the pasta is done, drain it and set it aside. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on the pasta to prevent it from sticking together, but this step is optional.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breasts and sausage slices. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Cook the chicken and sausage for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, and the sausage is nice and crispy around the edges. The combination of smoky sausage and tender chicken provides the perfect protein-packed base for the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the chicken and sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent. The aroma of the onions cooking in the skillet will make your kitchen smell incredible!
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic has a tendency to burn quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it. You want it fragrant but not overly browned.
Step 4: Make the Creamy BBQ Sauce
Now, it’s time to create the creamy BBQ sauce that will tie everything together. Pour in the heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly and fully incorporate the flavors.
The combination of BBQ sauce and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that’s smoky, creamy, and slightly tangy. The chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, making it the perfect base for the pasta.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy BBQ sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the creamy sauce. This step ensures that every piece of pasta is infused with that smoky, BBQ goodness.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is well-coated with the sauce, it’s time to add the finishing touch: the shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the pasta, then stir it in until it’s melted and fully incorporated. The cheese will make the dish extra creamy and indulgent, giving it a rich and cheesy flavor that will have you craving more.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For a pop of color and freshness, garnish your One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This step is optional but adds a lovely touch to the presentation. Serve the dish hot, and get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta
- Choose the Right Sausage: The sausage is a key ingredient in this recipe. Opt for smoked sausage for the best smoky flavor. You can use other sausages, like spicy Italian or kielbasa, if you prefer a different taste.
- Use a High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce really shines in this dish, so choose a high-quality brand that you love. Sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy – it’s up to you!
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, toss in some veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini while cooking the chicken and sausage.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth slightly or simmer the sauce for longer before adding the pasta.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta is approximately 500 calories, making it a satisfying meal that won’t break your calorie budget. With protein from the chicken and sausage and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this pasta dish is both filling and delicious.
- Calories: 500 kcal per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g (from BBQ sauce and cream)
Conclusion
If you’re craving a pasta dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and a little smoky BBQ goodness, then One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta is the recipe you need. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you want something hearty and comforting. With just one skillet, you can create a flavorful meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:
- Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini
- Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta
- Cheesy Bacon Ranch Crack Chicken Penne
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta combines smoky BBQ flavors with creamy goodness in a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Tender chicken, savory sausage, and penne pasta come together in a luscious sauce that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 sausage links (such as smoked sausage), sliced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken and Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sausage slices. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the chicken and sausage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Make the Creamy BBQ Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy BBQ sauce mixture until well coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the sauce.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta. Stir it in until melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve your One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta hot, and enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes when making the BBQ sauce.
- Feel free to swap out the sausage for any variety you prefer, such as Italian sausage or chicken sausage.
- This recipe can also be made with any short pasta you have on hand, like rotini or rigatoni.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta, Smoky BBQ pasta, Creamy chicken sausage pasta, BBQ pasta recipe, Quick dinner ideas, One-pan pasta dish, Creamy BBQ sauce, Chicken sausage pasta, Weeknight dinner recipe