Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dinner that’s bursting with flavor, the Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake is exactly what you need on your table tonight. This dish perfectly combines tender cooked chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a luscious smoky barbecue sauce, all topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella for that irresistible gooey finish. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Plus, it’s loaded with vibrant bell peppers and red onions for a fresh crunch that balances the smoky richness in every bite.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake deserves a prime spot in your weekly meal lineup for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile; the combination of pasta, chicken, and BBQ sauce is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken while elevating it with smoky, tangy flavors that feel indulgent yet familiar. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep and simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Not to mention, it’s a great example of comfort food done right—warm, cheesy, and satisfying without being overly heavy. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or swap out the cheeses. And if you love pasta bakes, you might also want to check out my One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini for another luscious pasta dish that’s equally easy and delicious.

Ingredient Notes

• Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): Use any cooked chicken you like—rotisserie, grilled, or baked. Shredded chicken works best to evenly distribute throughout the bake.
• Cheese tortellini (12 oz): Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini both work well; just be sure to cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• BBQ sauce (1 cup): Choose a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce that is free from pork ingredients to keep the dish suitable for everyone.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds sharpness and depth of flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): For melty, stretchy goodness on top.
• Diced bell peppers (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and crunch; red, yellow, or orange peppers work beautifully.
• Diced red onion (1/2 cup): Brings a mild pungency and color contrast.
• Turkey bacon (1/4 cup, chopped): A flavorful alternative to pork bacon, giving a smoky, savory kick.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing vegetables and bacon bits.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) & onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhance the overall savory profile.
• Salt and pepper: To taste; season carefully to balance the BBQ sauce’s sweetness.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot: To boil the tortellini until perfectly tender.
• Large skillet: For sautéing the bell peppers, onions, and turkey bacon.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the cooked chicken, tortellini, BBQ sauce, and sautéed veggies.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): To assemble and bake the tortellini bake.
• Grater: For shredding cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise seasoning.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir and combine ingredients evenly.

Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Turkey Bacon

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers, red onion, and chopped turkey bacon. Cook until the veggies are softened and the bacon is slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.

Step 3: Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in the smoky sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini and sautéed veggies with bacon to the bowl with the BBQ chicken. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer the tortellini mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Dive into this comforting, smoky, cheesy delight!

What to Use Instead

• Chicken: Substitute with shredded turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese tortellini: Use ravioli, gnocchi, or any small filled pasta you love.
• Turkey bacon: Try smoked tempeh or mushrooms sautéed with smoked paprika for a vegan option.
• Cheddar and mozzarella: Swap with pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• BBQ sauce: Use a homemade smoky tomato sauce or a hot sauce blend if you want to spice things up.

What I Learned Testing

• Using cooked chicken that’s shredded rather than cubed helps the BBQ flavor coat every bite evenly.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini initially; it will continue baking in the oven, so leaving it slightly firm prevents mushiness.
• Adding the turkey bacon adds a wonderful smoky crunch that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses creates the perfect balance of sharpness and melty stretchiness.
• Sautéing the veggies first softens them and brings out their sweetness, which contrasts nicely with the smoky BBQ flavor.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out. If you want to freeze it, assemble the bake but don’t add the cheese topping. Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and add cheese before baking as usual for best texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bake a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the cheese on top and bake as directed. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

What if I don’t have turkey bacon?

You can omit the turkey bacon or replace it with a smoky seasoning on the veggies. Alternatively, try smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add that depth of flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and smoky with a touch of sweetness from the BBQ sauce. If you prefer some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.

Can I use frozen veggies instead of fresh?

Fresh veggies are best for texture, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture that can make the bake soggy.

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Hungry for More?

If you love this Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake, you’re going to adore exploring more hearty, flavor-packed meals that bring comfort and convenience together. Whether you’re after pasta dishes, savory bakes, or creative BBQ ideas, there’s a wealth of inspiration waiting for you to try next.

This Smoky BBQ Chicken Tortellini Bake recipe is the perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and hearty flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Its ease of preparation, combined with its crowd-pleasing taste, makes it a reliable go-to for any weeknight dinner or casual get-together. Serve it with a simple green salad or some crispy Parmesan And Rosemary Potato Stacks for a complete meal that satisfies every craving. Enjoy!

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