Description
This BBQ Chicken Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort bake. Smoky barbecue sauce, juicy chicken, sweet corn, and melty cheese come together in one hearty dish your family will love.
Ingredients
3 cups uncooked rigatoni (or similar short pasta)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups diced fresh tomatoes (about 4 large tomatoes)
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 cup black beans, cooked and rinsed if canned
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups cooked barbecue chicken, chopped or shredded
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch square baking dish and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 1–2 minutes until softened and fragrant without browning.
4. Increase the heat slightly and add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and chili flakes if using. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
5. Stir in the red bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes, allowing most of the excess liquid to cook off.
6. Add the barbecue sauce, corn, and black beans. Season with salt and pepper, stirring well to combine.
7. Fold in the cooked chicken and drained pasta, mixing until everything is evenly coated with sauce.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish.
9. Combine the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses and sprinkle evenly over the top.
10. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
You can substitute canned diced tomatoes if fresh are not available. Add extra chili or hot sauce for a spicier version. This casserole freezes well before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American