If you’re looking for a comforting dish that combines the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ with the creamy richness of Alfredo, this Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the perfect solution! It’s simple, satisfying, and comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup milk (if needed for thinning the sauce)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method
This Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and tangy BBQ flavor. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it until it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. While the pan is heating, season the chicken breast strips with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Toss the chicken with the BBQ sauce, coating it evenly.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the cream to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which will help it thicken.
Once the cream has thickened slightly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken with the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the creamy Alfredo sauce and toss it to coat the pasta evenly. Be sure to coat all of the noodles with the rich, creamy sauce. Gently add the BBQ chicken on top and toss everything together to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta hot, and enjoy a meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine is the traditional pasta for Alfredo dishes, you can easily substitute it with other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. The creamy BBQ sauce will work well with any pasta shape.
2. What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can use other alternatives like a sweet chili sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a homemade BBQ sauce. Each will give the dish a different flavor, but they will all taste great!
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed freshly made, you can make the pasta and BBQ chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the pasta and chicken, then toss them together with the Alfredo sauce.
4. Can I use a non-dairy alternative for the cream and butter?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free version. Similarly, use a plant-based butter substitute to keep the dish dairy-free.
5. Can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce. A dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños can also add an extra kick to this dish.
6. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy texture.
Conclusion
This Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a perfect blend of creamy Alfredo sauce and smoky, tangy BBQ chicken, making it a comforting and satisfying dish for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re craving something creamy, flavorful, or just looking for a new twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe has it all. Plus, with the addition of BBQ sauce, it offers a unique and delightful twist on traditional Alfredo pasta. Give it a try tonight for a meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a plate of this mouthwatering Creamy BBQ Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Your taste buds will thank you!