Cook pasta skillet meals have become my go-to for busy weeknights, and this spicy honey BBQ chicken version is a total game-changer. I remember the first time I tried how to cook pasta in a skillet, I was a little intimidated, but the convenience is unbeatable! This creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy dish fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s a simple skillet pasta recipe that delivers big on flavor without the fuss of multiple pots. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Pasta Recipe
This skillet pasta recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons:
- Amazing Flavor: The spicy honey BBQ sauce combined with creamy chicken and tender pasta is incredibly satisfying.
- Super Quick Prep: With only 15 minutes of prep, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein from the chicken and veggies, it’s a more balanced meal than many pasta dishes.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable ingredients, making it great for families.
- One Pan Pasta Skillet Simplicity: Everything cooks in one skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This one pan pasta skillet is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different veggies or proteins.
Ingredients for Your Skillet Pasta Dinner
Gather these ingredients for a delicious skillet pasta with chicken dinner:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta – choose a shape that holds sauce well
- 1 cup chicken broth – for simmering the pasta and creating the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream – this makes our pasta wonderfully creamy
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce – the star flavor for our sweet and smoky dish
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that gooey, cheesy finish
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color) – adds a touch of sweetness and crunch
- 1/2 cup sliced red onions – brings a mild bite and depth of flavor
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – for sautéing the veggies
- 1 tsp garlic powder – essential for that savory garlic note
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- Chopped cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish) – for a fresh, bright finish
How to Cook Pasta in a Skillet
Let’s dive into making this delicious skillet pasta recipe! It’s truly a straightforward process, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve such fantastic flavor without boiling water separately. This simple skillet pasta recipe is perfect for those weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- Step 1: Start by heating 2 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the 1/2 cup diced bell peppers and 1/2 cup sliced red onions. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to soften and release their sweet aroma.
- Step 2: Add the 1 lb cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the 1 tsp garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything together and let it heat through for another 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to get nicely coated in the savory seasonings.
- Step 3: Now for the magic! Pour in the 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce. Give it all a good stir to combine the liquids and create the base for our creamy sauce. Add the 12 oz rotini or penne pasta directly into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer.
- Step 4: Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, leaving a rich, thick sauce. This is a key moment in our simple skillet pasta recipe – resist the urge to overcook the pasta!
- Step 5: Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the lid and stir in the 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy and smooth. The aroma at this stage is incredible!
- Step 6: Serve this amazing pasta cooked in skillet immediately. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if you like for a fresh, vibrant finish. Enjoy this wonderful simple skillet pasta recipe!
Expert Tips for the Best Skillet Pasta
I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure my skillet pasta turns out perfectly every time:
- Use a wide, deep skillet. This gives the pasta plenty of room to cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the liquid. If your sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash more chicken broth or water to keep things flowing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning throughout. Adding salt and pepper at different stages helps build flavor layers.
- Ensure your pasta isn’t fully submerged initially. It will soften and cook in the sauce as it simmers.
What’s the secret to perfect pasta cooked in a skillet?
The key is the liquid-to-pasta ratio and ensuring the pasta cooks directly in the flavored sauce. This method, skillet pasta without boiling water, allows the pasta to absorb all those delicious flavors as it softens. For more tips on pasta perfection, check out Allrecipes’ guide to cooking pasta.
Can I make this skillet pasta ahead of time?
You can prep all the ingredients, including sautéing the veggies and chicken, a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to cook, combine everything in the skillet and follow the simmering instructions.
How do I avoid common mistakes with one pot pasta skillet recipes?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the skillet, which steams the pasta instead of cooking it. Also, ensure you use enough liquid for the pasta to absorb. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Understanding proper cooking techniques can make a big difference, similar to how cooking rice requires attention to liquid ratios.
Best Ways to Serve Your Skillet Pasta
This delicious skillet pasta is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to make it a complete feast. Some of the best skillet pasta dishes shine with a fresh element to balance the richness.
I love serving this spicy honey BBQ chicken pasta with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully. Another great option is some crusty garlic bread for dipping into any leftover sauce – it’s always a hit! For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. These simple additions elevate this easy dish into a full family-pleasing meal. If you’re looking for more side dish inspiration, explore Food Network’s easy side dishes.
Nutrition Facts for Skillet Pasta
This skillet pasta recipe is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Skillet Pasta
This skillet pasta is so good, you might have leftovers, and that’s a great thing! For the best results when storing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta mushy. Properly stored, your delicious pasta cooked in skillet will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for making ahead and having quick skillet pasta meals ready to go throughout the week.
If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Again, ensure it’s completely cool before freezing in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for thawed or refrigerated leftovers is on the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Pasta
Is this a true one-pan pasta skillet recipe?
Yes, absolutely! The beauty of this skillet pasta is that everything cooks together in a single skillet, from sautéing the veggies to cooking the pasta. This minimizes cleanup and makes it incredibly convenient for weeknight dinners. For more one-pan meal ideas, consider exploring Simply Recipes’ one-pan meals.
What makes this a cheesy skillet pasta recipe?
The magic happens in the final step when we stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. It melts into the sauce, creating that wonderfully gooey and rich texture that defines a great cheesy skillet pasta recipe. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Can I make this a creamy skillet pasta recipe with different ingredients?
You certainly can! While the heavy cream provides a luxurious base for this creamy skillet pasta recipe, you can experiment with half-and-half for a lighter version, or even a dairy-free alternative like full-fat coconut milk (though it will add a subtle coconut flavor). Just ensure your liquid base complements the other flavors.
What are some good vegetable additions to this skillet pasta?
Beyond the bell peppers and onions, feel free to toss in other quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, zucchini, corn, or peas during the last few minutes of simmering. These additions can make your pasta cooked in skillet even more vibrant and nutritious.
Variations of Skillet Pasta You Can Try
This spicy honey BBQ chicken pasta skillet is fantastic as is, but I love how versatile it is! It’s the perfect base for creating different flavor profiles and accommodating various needs, making it ideal for skillet pasta for families and busy skillet pasta for weeknights.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and add extra veggies like broccoli florets, zucchini, or even some canned chickpeas. A vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a completely meat-free meal.
- Spicy Kick-Up: For those who love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic powder in Step 2. You could also use a spicier BBQ sauce or a swirl of sriracha at the end.
- Creamy Tuscan Twist: Swap the BBQ sauce for sun-dried tomatoes and add some spinach at the end with the cheese. This creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a less decadent, but still creamy, sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
Cook Pasta Skillet: 15 Min Amazing Dinner
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 – 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This spicy honey BBQ chicken pasta skillet is a one-pan wonder. Creamy, smoky, and packed with bold flavor, it’s the perfect dinner when you want something comforting with a little kick.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onions
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bell peppers and red onions, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add cooked chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and honey BBQ sauce. Stir well, then add uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to simmer until pasta is cooked (about 10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is done, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, or add red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add more broth during cooking if the sauce thickens too quickly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg