Go Back
–+ servings

Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

A one-skillet weeknight wonder combining spicy Cajun heat, sweet BBQ sauce, and creamy pasta for a bold, comforting dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Dinner, Main, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 685
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (preferably California)
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced such as rotisserie chicken
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the cooked chicken, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 685kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 40gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 1150mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18g

Notes

For extra heat, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper with the Cajun seasoning. You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it won't be as thick. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth. To make ahead, cook the pasta separately and combine with the sauce just before serving. Avoid overcooking the pasta by checking it a minute or two early. For a smoky twist, use a BBQ sauce with hickory or mesquite flavor. Serve with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!