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One-Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4–6

Description

This One-Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. With tender elbow macaroni, juicy seasoned chicken, bold BBQ flavor, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, every bite is a satisfying blend of heat, smoke, and indulgence. Perfect for quick weeknight meals with minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional)

1 cup milk

½ cup heavy cream

¾ cup spicy barbecue sauce

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 cups chicken broth

Optional garnish: scallions, red pepper flakes


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add cooked chicken and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine.
  4. Add uncooked elbow macaroni. Mix and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
  7. Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish if desired. Serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: One-Pot Pasta