One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Sausage Pasta Delight

Are you ready for a dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory in one pan? My One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Sausage Pasta Delight will blow your taste buds away. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, all you need is one skillet to make it! Join me as we dive into this simple recipe that’s perfect for busy nights and satisfying meals. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

- 12 oz penne pasta

- 1 lb spicy chicken sausage, sliced

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 small onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)

- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Measuring Tips and Substitutions

When measuring pasta, use a kitchen scale for accuracy. Twelve ounces is about three cups of dried penne. If you don’t have penne, use any pasta shape you like. You can swap spicy chicken sausage for regular chicken sausage or turkey sausage. Olive oil can be replaced with canola or avocado oil. For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.

Nutritional Information Breakdown

This dish serves four people. Each serving has around 480 calories. It provides about 20 grams of protein, which comes mainly from the chicken sausage. The pasta adds carbs, giving you energy. The heavy cream adds some fat, but you can make it lower in calories by swapping it out. The veggies and tomatoes bring vitamins and fiber to the meal. Enjoy this dish with a balanced diet for the best results!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Process

Start with a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add one pound of sliced spicy chicken sausage. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it turns brown. Remove the sausage and set it aside. In the same skillet, add one small diced onion and one sliced bell pepper. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften.

Next, add two minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for one more minute until you smell the nice aroma. Now, pour in one cup of chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Stir in 12 ounces of penne pasta and one cup of honey BBQ sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and has soaked up most of the liquid.

Lower the heat and add half a cup of heavy cream and one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes.

Cooking Time for Each Step

- Heating olive oil and cooking sausage: 5-7 minutes

- Sautéing onion and bell pepper: 3-4 minutes

- Cooking garlic, seasoning, and red pepper flakes: 1 minute

- Simmering chicken broth: negligible time

- Cooking pasta with sauce: 10-12 minutes

- Adding cream and tomatoes, heating through: 2-3 minutes

Tips for Ensuring Perfect Pasta Texture

To get the best pasta, use a timer. Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This helps it cook evenly. Test the pasta a couple of minutes before the time is up. You want it firm but not hard. If it feels too hard, let it cook a bit longer. If you find it too soft, you may have overcooked it.

Remember to keep an eye on the sauce. If it looks too dry, add a splash more of chicken broth. This will help the pasta stay moist and flavorful.

Tips & Tricks

Additional Flavor Enhancements

For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes. If you like garlic, toss in more minced garlic for depth. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can provide a fresh taste. You can swap in different vegetables too. Zucchini or mushrooms work well and add texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skip the browning step for the sausage. It adds a rich flavor. If you overcook the pasta, it can turn mushy. Always check for doneness just before the time is up. Also, be careful with the salt. The BBQ sauce can be salty, so taste before adding more. Lastly, let the dish sit a minute before serving. This helps flavors blend better.

Tools and Equipment Needed

You only need a few tools for this dish:

- A large skillet to cook everything in one place.

- A wooden spoon for stirring.

- A sharp knife for chopping veggies and sausage.

- A measuring cup for liquids.

- A cutting board for prep work.

These tools make your cooking process smooth and easy. Enjoy making your One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Sausage Pasta!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

If you want to make this dish fit your needs, you can swap some ingredients. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta. You can also use a dairy-free heavy cream. Look for coconut cream or almond milk to keep it creamy. If you want to avoid sugar, pick a sugar-free BBQ sauce. These swaps do not change the flavor too much.

Alternative Protein Options

You can change the chicken sausage to suit your taste. If you want a leaner choice, use turkey sausage. If you prefer plant-based options, try tofu or tempeh. Both can absorb the flavors well. For a different taste, consider using shrimp or chicken breast. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure the protein is cooked through.

Flavor Adjustments (Heat Levels, Sweetness)

To make this dish hotter, add more red pepper flakes. You can also use a hot BBQ sauce. For a sweeter kick, drizzle in extra honey or maple syrup. If you like tangy flavors, a splash of apple cider vinegar can add depth. These simple tweaks will change the dish to fit your cravings.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

To keep your pasta fresh, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps retain the flavors and keeps the texture nice. If you want to enjoy it later, avoid adding the cheese on top until serving.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Flavor

When you’re ready to eat, reheat your pasta gently. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a bowl with a damp paper towel on top. This keeps it from drying out.

Freezing Instructions and Guidelines

If you want to freeze the pasta, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it as described before for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other pasta types. Spaghetti, fusilli, or farfalle work well. Just adjust the cooking time if needed. Each pasta shape holds sauce differently, adding variety to your dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To up the heat, add more red pepper flakes. You can also use spicy sausage or hot sauce. Chopped jalapeños or crushed chili peppers are great too. Always taste as you add to find your perfect spice level.

What can I serve with One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Sausage Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad. A green salad with vinaigrette freshens the meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are great for soaking up the sauce. Consider serving with roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

This post covers tasty pasta preparation from ingredients to storage. You learned about required items and how to measure them. The steps for cooking give clear guidance for perfect texture. We explored flavor boosts and ways to fix common mistakes. You can even tweak the recipe for different diets and spice levels. Finally, storing leftovers correctly ensures great taste later. With these insights, you can create delicious pasta with ease and confidence. Enjoy your cooking adventure!