Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cream or milk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture.

If using, heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté breadcrumbs until golden, then sprinkle over cheese layer.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.