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Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Meatball Pasta


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender BBQ chicken meatballs paired with pasta and a sweet, tangy sauce. Perfect for dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
    • 1 pound ground chicken
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon pepper
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
  • For the Sauce:
    • ¾ cup BBQ sauce (divided: ¼ cup for meatballs, ½ cup for tossing)
  • For the Pasta:
    • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or choice)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, breadcrumbs, and ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Mix gently to combine.
  • Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • While the meatballs bake, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Toss the cooked meatballs in the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce.
  • Combine the meatballs and pasta in a large bowl or skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Serve hot, garnished with parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the BBQ sauce with vinegar or honey, depending on your preference.
  • Add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking and Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ recipe)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg