Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta Supreme is a rich and satisfying one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, juicy steak, and pasta in a smoky-sweet honey BBQ cream sauce. With layers of flavor and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is a hearty, crowd-pleasing option that’s ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Combines chicken, steak, and pasta in one bold, flavorful dish
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Uses just one skillet for easy cooking and minimal cleanup
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Honey BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky twist to traditional pasta
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Creamy, cheesy sauce clings perfectly to every bite
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Ready in only 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights
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Garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb chicken breast, cubed
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1 lb steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon garlic, minced
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½ cup onion, finely chopped
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1 cup honey BBQ sauce
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1 cup heavy cream
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8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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Cook the Pasta:
Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Meats:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and sliced steak. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. -
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant and translucent. -
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the honey BBQ sauce and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. -
Add Pasta and Meats:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
Return the cooked chicken and steak to the skillet. Stir everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through. -
Add Cheese and Garnish:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt into the dish.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Calories: 550 kcal per serving
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
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Smoky Upgrade: Use smoked cheddar or add a dash of smoked paprika to deepen the BBQ flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in bell peppers, corn, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
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Different Pasta: Try it with cavatappi or rigatoni for a fun twist on texture.
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Lighter Option: Use light cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lower-calorie version.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin and flank are ideal, but ribeye or strip steak can also be used for richer flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the meat and sauce in advance. Reheat gently and toss with fresh-cooked pasta before serving.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently and stir well.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely—Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella also melt well and complement the BBQ flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a spoonful of cream cheese can work as a substitute.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shred and stir it in during the final simmer step to save cooking time.
What BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
Use your favorite honey BBQ sauce—store-bought or homemade. A thicker sauce will yield a richer texture.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat on medium and avoid boiling the cream after adding it to the sauce.
Can I make it without steak or chicken?
Yes, you can make it with just one protein or substitute with plant-based options for a vegetarian twist.
Does the cilantro make a big difference?
It adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors, but parsley is a suitable substitute if preferred.
Conclusion
Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta Supreme in One Pan is a flavorful, satisfying meal that combines the best of grilled meat, smoky-sweet sauce, and creamy pasta—all made in a single skillet. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy with every forkful.
Print
Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta Supreme in One Pan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
This Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Steak Pasta Supreme is a one-pan dinner loaded with tender chicken, juicy steak, al dente pasta, and a creamy honey BBQ sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and fresh cilantro, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or hearty weekend dinners.
Ingredients
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1 lb chicken breast, cubed
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1 lb steak (sirloin or flank), thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon garlic, minced
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1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
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1 cup honey BBQ sauce
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1 cup heavy cream
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8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Meat:
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add chicken and steak. Season with salt and pepper.
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Cook 7–10 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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Make the Sauce:
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In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent (about 2 minutes).
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Stir in honey BBQ sauce and heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine:
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Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
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Return the cooked meats to the skillet and mix everything together.
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Let simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through.
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Top and Serve:
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Sprinkle with shredded cheddar and let it melt.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
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Notes
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For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
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Can substitute steak with shrimp or extra chicken if preferred.
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Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Skillet
- Cuisine: American