Description
How to make sticky garlic butter BBQ chicken pasta with tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and tangy BBQ flavors that create the perfect comfort meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Garlic Butter Base
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
BBQ Sauce Mix
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining completely.
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt and pepper. This ensures golden browning and prevents steaming when it hits the hot pan.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in single layer for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through completely.
- Make Garlic Butter: Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not brown.
- Create BBQ Sauce: Whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and paprika. Add to pan with chicken broth and cream, stirring until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta to skillet and toss with sauce and chicken. Add pasta water as needed for perfect coating consistency that’s not too thick.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in parsley, green onions, and Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving immediately while hot and glossy.
Notes
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water – it’s essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Chicken breasts can substitute for thighs but watch cooking time to prevent drying out.
- Add extra BBQ sauce if you prefer a sweeter, stickier coating on the pasta.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for restaurant-quality presentation.
- Double the recipe easily for larger crowds or guaranteed leftovers.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 28g