Creamy BBQ chicken penne with pepper jack cheese in a bowl

Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

why make this recipe

Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors. With the richness of pepper jack cheese, the tang of barbecue sauce, and tender chicken, this meal is sure to please everyone. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

how to make Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Ingredients :

  • Penne pasta
  • Chicken breast
  • Pepper jack cheese
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Cream (optional)
  • Parsley (for garnish)

Directions :

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
  4. Once chicken is cooked, stir in barbecue sauce and let simmer for a few minutes.
  5. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix well.
  6. Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted. For a creamier sauce, add cream at this stage and mix until combined.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

how to serve Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. You can also place extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit more flavor!

how to store Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. When you are ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

tips to make Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce based on your taste preference; more for sweetness, less for a lighter flavor.
  • Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Make sure to grate the pepper jack cheese for easier melting in the skillet.

variation

You can make this recipe with different types of pasta, such as fusilli or rigatoni. For a lighter version, swap the cream for low-fat milk or omit it entirely. You can also try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute pepper jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste.

Is this dish spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on the pepper jack cheese and the barbecue sauce you use. If you want less heat, opt for a mild barbecue sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta and combine them when you’re ready to serve. This makes for a quick weeknight meal!

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Creamy Bold BBQ Pepper Jack Chicken Penne


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  • Author: angela
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A delightful pasta dish featuring pepper jack cheese, barbecue sauce, and tender chicken, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Penne pasta
  • 1 lb Chicken breast
  • 1 cup Pepper jack cheese, grated
  • ½ cup Barbecue sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup Cream (optional)
  • Parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
  4. Stir in barbecue sauce and let simmer for a few minutes.
  5. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix well.
  6. Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted. For a creamier sauce, add cream at this stage and mix until combined.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce based on your taste preference. Consider adding vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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