Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that marries American flavors with Italian traditions. The sweetness and smokiness of the BBQ sauce blend perfectly with tender penne pasta, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress without too much fuss.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnishing
• How to Make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Crusty Bread
• On a Bed of Greens
• In a Wrap
• How to Perfect Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Best Side Dishes for Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Reheating Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?
• Can I customize the recipe?
• What type of BBQ sauce works best?
• How long does it take to make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and BBQ sauce creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side dish, it suits various occasions from family dinners to potlucks.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one skillet, this recipe minimizes washing up after cooking.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch out the chicken for shrimp or veggies based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your experience making Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and garlic, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the penne cooks evenly for the perfect al dente texture.
• Measuring cups: Help achieve accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnishing

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Boil salted water in a pot.
1. Add the penne pasta once boiling.
2. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter until foamy.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in diced chicken along with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook until chicken is browned and fully cooked (approximately 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the chicken is cooked:
1. Stir in BBQ sauce and chicken broth.
2. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
3. Mix in the cooked penne pasta until every piece is well coated.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

To serve:
1. Plate your Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne hot.
2. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Share with your loved ones and enjoy!

This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also creates lasting memories around the dining table. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the dish directly from a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a casual and fun atmosphere for family gatherings.

Individual Plates

• For a more formal presentation, plate each portion individually. Top with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with a loaf of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This adds a comforting element to your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve atop a bed of mixed greens for a fresh contrast. The crunch of the greens complements the richness of the pasta.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, use the sticky garlic butter BBQ chicken penne as a filling for wraps. Add some lettuce and tomatoes for added texture.

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How to Perfect Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

To achieve the best version of Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and herbs will elevate the flavor significantly and make your dish taste homemade.
• Monitor Garlic Cooking Time: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness in your dish.
• Adjust BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces based on your taste preference; some may be sweeter or smokier than others.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Ensure you cook penne until al dente; this prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the parsley and Parmesan; they enhance both presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

When serving Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne, complement it with these delightful side dishes that pair well.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for mopping up sauce. Quick to prepare using store-bought loaves.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing provides a refreshing crunch against the rich pasta.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw balances the sweetness of BBQ sauce, adding texture and brightness to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and color to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser; grill or boil for an easy side that brings summer vibes.
6. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans harmonize beautifully with BBQ flavors, making them an ideal companion.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are great for dipping into any leftover sauce.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, balancing out the savory notes of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Skipping Salt in Pasta Water: Not seasoning the water can lead to bland pasta. Always salt your boiling water generously for flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook until just browned and no longer pink inside for tender bites.
• Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: A poor-quality sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Choose a BBQ sauce that you love for the best results.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to mix well can leave some pasta uncoated. Ensure all penne is evenly tossed in the garlic butter sauce and BBQ blend.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Skipping garnishes like parsley takes away freshness. Always add fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne.

What is Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is a flavorful main dish that combines tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich BBQ garlic butter sauce.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance nutrition and flavor.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose any BBQ sauce that you enjoy; sweeter sauces pair well with the savory elements of this dish.

How long does it take to make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?

The total time is about 35 minutes, making it a quick and delicious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes. Try it out today and enjoy the comforting flavors that this dish brings to your table!