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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

A flavorful and hearty BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad combining tender grilled chicken, cooked pasta, black beans, and fresh veggies tossed in a creamy BBQ yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or side dish with a balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded grilled chicken
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons light mayo (optional, for added creaminess)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly.
  2. Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, BBQ sauce, and light mayo (if using) until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  3. Combine the salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded grilled chicken, black beans, corn, diced red onion, chopped celery, and fresh cilantro. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
  4. Add the dressing. Pour the BBQ dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated, ensuring the pasta and vegetables are well covered for maximum flavor.
  5. Chill before serving. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
  6. Serve and enjoy. Give the salad a final stir, garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and serve chilled as a delicious lunch, side dish, or light dinner.

Notes

  • Use rotini or penne pasta for the best texture that holds dressing well.
  • Shredded grilled chicken can be substituted with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Black beans and corn add fiber and protein, making this salad more filling.
  • Adjust BBQ sauce amount according to your preferred level of smokiness and sweetness.
  • The optional light mayo makes the dressing creamier but can be omitted for a lighter version.
  • Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavors and texture.
  • This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken pasta salad, grilled chicken pasta salad, summer pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, BBQ pasta salad

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/bbq-chicken-pasta-salad-recipe/