Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta
Try this Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe.
Try this Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
- 1 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-
- 6-7 slices bacon chopped
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth (i use low-sodium)
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) rotel tomatoes undrained
- 16 ounces rotini pasta (or similar shape)
- 2/3 cup bbq sauce (favorite homemade version here)
- chopped chives or green onions for garnish (optional)
- Carbohydrate 0.135721111111111 g
- Cholesterol 16.821 mg
- Fat 14.7232822404818 g
- Fiber 0.00294444444444444 g
- Protein 4.62793666666667 g
- Saturated Fat 4.76890289125314 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -7 serving (179g)
- Sodium 101.308888888889 mg
- Sugar 0.132776666666667 g
- Trans Fat 0.727521556431833 g
- Calories 150 calories
Step-by-step
- In a 12-inch deep skillet (at least 2 to 3 inch sides) or a 5- or 6-quart pot, heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the pot and cook until crisp.
- Drain any excess grease and scrape the bacon onto the same plate as the chicken.
- Keeping the pot over medium heat, add the broth, deglazing the pan and scraping up any browned bits with a cooking spoon or spatula.
- Add the rotel tomatoes, pasta and salt. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, stirring often and moderating the heat to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente (about 10-12 minutes, but check package instructions as each brand may vary).
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, cooked chicken and bacon and heat through.
- Sprinkle the cheese over the top, cover, and let the pasta rest off the heat until the cheese is melted, 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chives or green onions and serve warm, drizzling with extra BBQ sauce, if desired.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious enough to satisfy my family's hungry bellies after a long day. That's where this Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe comes in. It's become a staple in our household, a true weeknight lifesaver. The combination of smoky BBQ, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, and tender pasta is irresistible – even my picky eaters gobble it up.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Don't have Monterey Jack? Cheddar, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend will work beautifully. Want to add some extra veggies? Throw in some bell peppers or onions while cooking the chicken. The beauty of this dish is that it's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. I often swap out the rotini for penne or even farfalle, depending on what I have on hand. And let's be honest, a little extra BBQ sauce never hurt anyone!
The preparation itself is surprisingly straightforward. The chicken cooks quickly, the bacon adds a delightful salty crunch, and the pasta simmers to perfection in a flavorful broth. The whole process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for those evenings when you're short on time but still want a satisfying and delicious meal. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze. One pot, minimal dishes – music to a busy mom's ears!
Beyond the ease and taste, this recipe offers a great way to incorporate leftovers. I often double the recipe and use the leftovers for lunch the next day. It reheats beautifully, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. So, if you're looking for a delicious, easy, and versatile weeknight dinner solution, this Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try. Trust me, it's become a family favorite for a reason.
Tips and Tricks for Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and browns nicely.
- Use good quality BBQ sauce. The flavor of the BBQ sauce really shines through in this dish, so use a brand or homemade version you love.
- Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta is key to this recipe's success. Be sure to check the package instructions for your specific brand of pasta.
- Let the cheese melt completely. This adds a wonderful creamy texture to the dish. Covering the pasta helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Get creative with your garnish. Chopped chives or green onions are classic, but you can also experiment with other herbs or spices, like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
This Monterey BBQ Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it's a time-saver, a crowd-pleaser, and a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined in a delicious way. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, give this recipe a try. Your family will thank you for it!
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms while cooking the chicken.
- Creamier Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the BBQ sauce.
- Different Pasta Shape: Feel free to substitute your favorite pasta shape.
Remember, cooking should be fun and adaptable! Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Enjoy!
