Smoky Honey BBQ Chicken Bacon Pasta with Toasted Sunflower Seeds in a Velvety Cream Sauce
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, diced
8 oz penne or rotini pasta
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup honey BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pan.
Add the olive oil to the skillet if needed. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the honey BBQ sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3–5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Stir in half of the toasted sunflower seeds, then sprinkle the remaining seeds and fresh parsley over the top before serving.
Tips
Add baby spinach or steamed broccoli for extra vegetables.
For a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy sauce.
