Name: One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 lb flank steak, sliced; 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 cup honey BBQ sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic all-in-one meal that saves time and cleanup by cooking everything in a single pan. The combination of juicy chicken and savory flank steak with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce makes it uniquely delicious. Plus, the creamy cheddar cheese adds a rich texture that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is both filling and flavorful.

ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 lb flank steak, sliced
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 cup honey BBQ sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add diced chicken and sliced steak to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in honey BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
After pasta is cooked, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Substitute flank steak with sirloin or ribeye for a different cut of beef.
Use smoked gouda or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
Swap honey BBQ sauce with spicy BBQ sauce for a bit of heat.
Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken and steak for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini work best as their shapes hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or omit the cheese.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild due to the honey BBQ sauce. To add heat, choose a spicy BBQ sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken, steak, and vegetables ahead but best to cook the pasta fresh to avoid sogginess.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

The cooked pasta tends to become mushy when frozen and thawed, so it’s best to freeze the meat and sauce separately if needed.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a little longer before adding the cream and cheese, or add a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or steak?

Yes, just add them after the pasta is cooked to warm through, reducing overall cooking time.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread pairs well with this pasta.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors packed into an easy, all-in-one skillet meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick, hearty, and satisfying without a lot of cleanup. With its flexibility in ingredients and flavors, this recipe can easily be customized to fit your taste and dietary needs. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that the whole family will love.