Baked BBQ Chicken Penne Pasta

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3/4″ pieces

1/4 cup Mild BBQ Sauce

1 tbsp. Kinder’s Mild BBQ Rub

8 oz. Penne pasta

1/2 lb. bacon, thick-cut, cut into 1/2″ pieces

1 small red onion, chopped

6 oz. smoked Gouda cheese, grated

4 green onions, chopped

1/4 cup cilantro

Step 1

Pre-heat oven to 375°F.
Step 2

Cook Penne according to package directions minus 1 minute. Drain. Set aside.
Step 3

Fry bacon until crisp, set aside on paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4

Saute onion over medium to high heat for two minutes or until softened.
Step 5

Season chicken with Mild BBQ Rub and add chicken and continue cooking, about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6

Remove from heat, add 1/2 the bacon and combine. Set aside to cool.
Step 7

Add Mild BBQ Sauce to the chicken mixture along with pasta, green onions, cilantro and 3/4 of the grated cheese.
Step 8

Transfer to greased 1 1/2 quart casserole dish or cast iron skillet. Top with remaining cheese and bacon.
Step 9

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve and Enjoy.