One-Pot Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta

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Juicy, tender chicken bites cloaked in a rich honey garlic BBQ sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta—all made in just one pot. This comforting dish is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The magic lies in the sauce: a sticky glaze of honey, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce that clings lovingly to every twist of pasta and every bite of chicken.

Whether you’re short on time or just want something hearty without the hassle of multiple pans, this one-pot recipe brings dinner to the table with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even an indulgent lunch. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your weekly rotation.

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Ingredients for this One-Pot Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or 2 garlic cloves, minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

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Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Once done, keep the chicken in the pan—no need to remove it.

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Step 2: Add the Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce. Stir everything well, making sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan to capture all the savory bits stuck from cooking the chicken. Add the uncooked pasta, stir again, and bring the mixture to a boil.

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Step 3: Simmer and Cook Through

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir once or twice while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking and to ensure it cooks evenly.

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Step 4: Final Touches

Remove the lid and give everything a good stir. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. If it’s too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. For added flair, sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover One-Pot Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For freezing, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving also works well for quick reheating—just stir halfway through and cover loosely to prevent drying out.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~520 kcal
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Sugars: 14 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fiber: 3 g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of BBQ sauce, pasta, and broth used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, shells, or elbow macaroni work great too. Just adjust the liquid or cooking time if needed.

2. Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s more sweet and smoky. To add heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the chicken for plant-based chicken or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite! Smoky, spicy, or classic sweet all pair well. Avoid overly thin sauces to keep the dish rich and sticky.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly. Be sure to stir often to ensure even cooking.

6. How can I make it creamier?

Stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end for a velvety twist.

7. Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Add it in step 3 when simmering with the pasta so it absorbs the sauce without overcooking.

8. What sides go well with this dish?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully with this hearty pasta.

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