Learn how to make the ultimate bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake, featuring rich cheese, savory sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni that your whole family will absolutely love tonight.
If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food that satisfies the entire family, this bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake is the answer. It combines smoky, savory, and creamy flavors into one incredible casserole. Gathering everyone around the table is easy when a hot bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake is fresh out of the oven.
Here is how to create this masterpiece step-by-step.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
1.5 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish. Boil the rigatoni in salted water until it is just shy of al dente, as it will finish softening later. Cooking the noodles perfectly ensures your bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake holds its structure beautifully.
2. Build the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and heavy cream until completely smooth. Stir in one cup of the cheddar cheese. This creamy, smoky base is what gives the bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake its signature rich flavor profile.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Add the drained rigatoni and the shredded chicken directly into the bowl with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for your bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake.
4. Layer the Topping
Evenly scatter the remaining cheddar and all the mozzarella over the top. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle them over the cheese layer. This topping gives the bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake its irresistible, bubbly, golden-brown crust.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the edges are slightly charred. Let the bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce can set. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and enjoy your homemade bbq chicken cheddar pasta bake with friends and family.
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