BBQ Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Pasta Recipe

Because it’s ready in under half an hour and uses just one pan — fewer dishes to wash and less hassle.
The flavour is rich, smoky and satisfying — the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, bacon and pasta.
It uses simple, store‑cupboard ingredients you likely already have, making it budget‑friendly and easy to throw together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bacon lardons (or chopped smoky bacon)

• Chicken breasts, cut into bite‑sized pieces

• Onion, peeled and chopped

• Garlic cloves, peeled and crushed

• Red peppers (bell peppers), deseeded and cut into pieces

• Dry pasta (any shape you like)

• Tinned chopped tomatoes

• Sweet smoked paprika

• BBQ sauce (a good quality shop brand)

• Vegetable stock (made up from a stock cube)

• Grated mozzarella

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Heat a large sauté pan with a lid over medium heat. Add the bacon lardons and fry for about 5 minutes until they begin to brown.

2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for another 5 minutes until they are sealed and starting to brown.

3. Stir in the chopped onion, crushed garlic, and red pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

4. Add the dry pasta, chopped tomatoes, sweet smoked paprika, BBQ sauce, and approximately 500 ml of hot vegetable stock. Season with salt and pepper, stir well, cover with the lid, and cook for 15–20 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Preheat your grill (broiler) to high about 5 minutes before the pasta is finished cooking.

6. Once the pasta is done, stir everything together again, sprinkle grated mozzarella on top, and place under the grill for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

7. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

• Omit the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian version using plant-based protein or extra vegetables.

• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta to meet dietary needs.

• Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to boost nutrition and color.

• Include a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of stock or water to loosen the sauce.

• Freezing: Can be frozen, but pasta texture may become soft after thawing and reheating, so fresh is best.

FAQs

What type of pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Any pasta shape works well — penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just use what you have on hand.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and add more flavor, though they may take a little longer to cook.

Do I have to use bacon lardons?

No, chopped smoky bacon or pancetta can be used instead for the same savory depth.

What if I don’t have sweet smoked paprika?

You can use regular smoked paprika or even a little chili powder if you want some heat.

How do I make this dish more healthy?

Use lean chicken breast, whole-wheat pasta, reduce or skip the cheese, and bulk up with extra vegetables.

Can this be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat before serving, though it’s best with the cheese grilled fresh.

Is this recipe freezer‑friendly?

Yes, but the texture of pasta may soften. It’s safe to freeze, just better when eaten fresh or from the fridge.

What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

Use a good quality BBQ sauce with a flavor you enjoy — the sauce plays a key role in the dish’s taste.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or corn can all be added to boost nutrition and flavor.

My pasta is done but the sauce is still very loose — what should I do?

Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to let the sauce reduce. If it’s too dry, stir in a little more hot stock.

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Pasta is a fast, flavorful, and filling dinner idea that’s perfect for families or anyone needing a quick meal with maximum comfort. The smoky BBQ flavor, tender chicken, crisp bacon, and melty cheese make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s flexible, customizable, and easy to love — give it a try tonight!