Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole

Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the irresistible flavors of barbecue with the cheesy goodness of pasta? This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want to treat yourself to a flavorful, satisfying meal. With tender shredded chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, every bite is pure comfort. Plus, the addition of vibrant bell peppers, onions, and sweet corn adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color that makes this casserole as pretty as it is delicious.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole has quickly become a favorite in many kitchens because it strikes the perfect balance between rich, smoky flavors and cheesy indulgence. The rotini pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is coated in that tangy barbecue goodness. Shredded chicken brings protein and heartiness, while the melty cheese topping creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s impossible to resist. What’s more, this recipe comes together with everyday ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It’s versatile, customizable, and reheats well, so you can enjoy leftovers as much as the initial serving. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups cooked rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients effortlessly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and melting cheese.
• Skillet – for sautéing the bell peppers, onions, and corn.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasoning just right.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing everything thoroughly.
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes.

How to Prepare Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready once your casserole is assembled.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and corn kernels. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and adds depth to your casserole.

Step 3: Mix Pasta and Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta and shredded chicken. Add the sautéed vegetables, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined and the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Reserve about 1/2 cup of each cheese for topping. Fold the remaining cheddar and mozzarella into the pasta mixture. This ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pasta mixture to your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. This creates a lovely golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm Weather: Serve this casserole with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables to lighten the meal.
• Cool Weather: Pair it with warm garlic bread or Bbq Chicken Pizza for a cozy, indulgent feast.
• Add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick when you want to turn up the heat.
• Swap out the bell peppers for roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for different flavor profiles.

Testing Timeline

• Preparation: 15 minutes including sautéing vegetables and mixing ingredients.
• Baking: 20-25 minutes to get that perfect cheesy crust.
• Cooling: 5 minutes to allow the casserole to set for easier serving.
• Total time: Approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead option. Combine all the ingredients and assemble the casserole in your baking dish up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheating in the oven or microwave keeps the cheese melty and the flavors fresh.

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini works great because of its shape that holds the sauce, you can use penne, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.

What can I substitute for shredded chicken?

If you prefer, shredded turkey or even cooked chickpeas can be used as alternatives. Both provide protein and work well with the barbecue sauce and cheese.

Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well, such as those made from cashews or soy. Be sure to check the barbecue sauce ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary needs.

How can I add more veggies to this recipe?

Great question! Feel free to toss in chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms along with the sautéed vegetables. These additions boost nutrition and add more flavor complexity.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Bbq Chicken Pizza – A delightful twist on classic pizza with smoky barbecue flavors.
• Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pasta – Creamy pasta loaded with bacon and ranch seasoning for ultimate comfort.

Bring It Home

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. Its unbeatable combination of smoky barbecue, tender chicken, and luscious cheese makes it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this casserole hits all the right notes. The simplicity of ingredients and straightforward steps deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Next time you crave something filling and flavorful, this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole will be your go-to comfort food.

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