BBQ Chicken Spaghetti is an inventive twist on classic pasta, blending tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese for a unique and flavorful meal. This dish is ideal for those nights when you’re craving something quick, comforting, and packed with bold flavors. Monterey Jack cheese melts into the sauce, giving it a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky notes of bacon and green onions. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal to impress guests, this BBQ Chicken Spaghetti is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce & Toppings
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil: Add spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed, and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken: Once slightly cooled, slice the chicken into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce Base
- Heat the barbecue sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the barbecue sauce and cook over medium heat until warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Chicken
- Add the spaghetti: Place the cooked spaghetti in the skillet with the warmed barbecue sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the chicken: Layer the sliced chicken over the spaghetti and mix gently.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Toppings
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Add bacon and green onions: Sprinkle the bacon bits (if using) and chopped green onions over the melted cheese for added flavor and texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Plate and garnish: Serve the BBQ Chicken Spaghetti warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Add a few extra bacon bits and green onions if desired for a vibrant presentation.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 26g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or linguine. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta type.
Q2: What type of barbecue sauce is best?
Any barbecue sauce will work, but a smoky or tangy variety pairs especially well with the flavors in this dish. You can also try honey barbecue sauce for a hint of sweetness.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, for a delicious vegetarian twist. Omit the bacon, or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Q4: Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can be used to save time. Simply slice or shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it in Step 4 when mixing with the spaghetti.
Tips for Making the Best BBQ Chicken Spaghetti
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the spaghetti to al dente so it doesn’t become mushy once combined with the sauce.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside and results in more flavorful, tender pieces.
- Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This helps the sauce coat the spaghetti without being overly thick or sticky.
- Experiment with cheeses: Monterey Jack is a great melting cheese, but you can also mix in mozzarella or cheddar for added flavor and creaminess.
Storage Tips
Refrigerating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a bit more barbecue sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but pasta may become softer after thawing. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a little added water or sauce.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Spaghetti is a flavorful, hearty meal that combines smoky, tangy barbecue flavors with tender chicken and a cheesy pasta base. Perfect for busy weeknights or even a weekend gathering, this dish is versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re a fan of barbecue or just looking for a new way to enjoy pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful balance of savory, smoky, and cheesy flavors in every bite!