Name: Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt and pepper; Garlic powder; Olive oil or butter; Pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni); Honey BBQ sauce; Heavy cream or half-and-half; Shredded cheddar cheese; Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess); Onion (optional); Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

This Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta is a bold, comforting twist on classic pasta night. With tender bites of chicken coated in a smoky-sweet honey BBQ sauce, tossed in a rich cheddar cheese cream sauce, this dish brings together the best of tangy, creamy, and cheesy in one irresistible skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s packed with flavor and comes together fast, making it perfect for weeknights when I want something easy and satisfying. The combo of honey BBQ sauce with melted cheddar gives it a sweet and savory kick that keeps me coming back for more. It’s family-friendly, totally customizable, and tastes like something from a BBQ joint—with way less effort.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Olive oil or butter
Pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
Honey BBQ sauce
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Onion (optional, for more depth)
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

directions

I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
If using, I sauté some finely chopped onion in the same skillet until softened.
I reduce the heat, then stir in the BBQ sauce and cream. I let it simmer for a few minutes so it thickens slightly.
While that simmers, I cook the pasta according to the package directions and drain it.
I stir shredded cheddar (and cream cheese, if using) into the sauce until it melts into a creamy mixture.
I return the chicken to the pan and toss in the cooked pasta, stirring until everything is well coated.
I garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve it warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken for shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken to save time. If I want to add veggies, sautéed bell peppers or corn go great in this dish. For a smokier twist, I use smoked cheddar or a mix of cheddar and gouda. When I’m in the mood for spice, I add a dash of chipotle powder or hot sauce to the sauce.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to bring back that silky texture. The sauce can thicken in the fridge, but it loosens up nicely when warmed gently.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of BBQ sauce?

Yes, I like using honey BBQ for that sweet-savory balance, but spicy or smoky versions work great too—it just changes the flavor profile a bit.

What type of pasta is best?

I go with short pastas like penne, rotini, or shells because they hold the sauce well, but any pasta I have on hand will do the job.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made it earlier in the day and reheated it for dinner. I just add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.

Is there a dairy-free version?

To make it dairy-free, I use a plant-based cream and cheese alternative. The flavor changes a bit, but it still tastes great with the BBQ sauce as the main highlight.

Can I bake it into a casserole?

Absolutely. I mix everything, pour it into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Conclusion

Creamy Honey BBQ Chicken & Cheddar Pasta is my go-to when I want bold flavor and creamy comfort in one dish. It’s quick, cheesy, and full of BBQ goodness, making it perfect for busy nights or anytime I want something a little indulgent. Every bite hits that sweet, smoky, and cheesy note just right.