Imagine coming home to a steaming skillet brimming with smoky BBQ flavor, tender bites of chicken, and sizzling sausage slices, all swirled into a creamy, rich pasta sauce. This one-skillet masterpiece is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together bold Southern BBQ vibes and velvety pasta goodness in just one pan. It’s hearty, indulgent, and packed with a balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an easy crowd-pleaser, this dish skips the fuss without skimping on flavor. The creamy BBQ sauce hugs every noodle, while golden-browned sausage and juicy chicken add protein-packed satisfaction. Whether you’re short on time or just want a hassle-free meal, this creamy smoky pasta will be your new go-to for effortless deliciousness.

Ingredients for One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta

1 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 smoked sausages, sliced (Andouille or Kielbasa work great)
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1½ cups dry pasta (penne, rotini, or a mix)
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce (smoky preferred)
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan
Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Step 1: Sear the Meats

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage first, letting each side caramelize and develop a golden-brown crust — about 3–4 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same skillet, toss in the diced chicken breast. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

With the cooked chicken still in the skillet, stir in the dry pasta. Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly to combine everything and bring the mixture to a light boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 3: Finish with Cheese and Sausage

Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. The sauce will thicken and become beautifully creamy. Return the cooked sausage slices to the pan and gently stir to incorporate them throughout the dish. Let everything warm together for another 2–3 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and herby freshness. If you love a bit of kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving. Dish it up hot and enjoy the melty, smoky, ultra-comforting goodness straight from the skillet.

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of your One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta, first let the dish cool to room temperature. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until thoroughly heated.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: ~620
Protein: ~36g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~34g
Saturated Fat: ~14g
Sugar: ~8g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~1100mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Just skip the chicken browning step and stir the pre-cooked chicken in when you return the sausage to the skillet in Step 3.

2. What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or hickory-flavored BBQ sauce complements the sausage and creamy base perfectly. Sweet and spicy varieties are great too, depending on your taste.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely. Use a spicy sausage like hot Italian or Andouille and toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

4. Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pastas like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or even shells hold the sauce well. Just make sure to adjust the liquid or cook time if needed.

5. How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the cheese, and opt for turkey sausage or grilled chicken breast.

6. Will plant-based sausage work?

Yes! Just make sure to choose a variety that browns well, and cook it separately before adding it back in with the pasta and sauce.

7. Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

Totally! Just use a larger skillet or pot and double all the ingredients. It stores well for multiple days.

8. What can I serve with this pasta?

Try garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced meal.

One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Author: Nora Sinclair
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something rich, hearty, and packed with flavor? This One-Skillet Creamy Smoky BBQ Chicken & Sausage Pasta is your dream dinner come true. Juicy chunks of seasoned chicken and seared sausage are enveloped in a luscious, smoky BBQ cheese sauce and stirred into tender pasta — all in one pan. It’s a weeknight win that checks every box: minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and guaranteed satisfaction.

Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a comforting meal for the family, or a new go-to for your recipe rotation, this dish delivers. It’s perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends, or when you just need a hearty, soul-warming bowl of deliciousness. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option, freezes well, and reheats beautifully — what more could you want?

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and sear until golden brown (3–4 mins). Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced chicken. Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through (5–6 mins).
Stir in dry pasta, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and heavy cream. Mix well. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 mins until pasta is tender.
Stir in shredded cheddar and parmesan until the sauce becomes creamy. Add back the sausage and combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner