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–+ servings

Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

This bold Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is a creamy, spicy one-pot wonder ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, dinner, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 750
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil California-grown if available
  • chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

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

Nutrition

Calories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 45gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 1350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18g

Notes

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños. You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; adjust cooking time as needed. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. To make ahead, cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat. Avoid overcooking the pasta—it will continue to soften as it sits. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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