Print

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 30 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender grilled chicken, hearty pasta, and fresh vegetables tossed in a creamy BBQ yogurt dressing. Perfectly chilled and bursting with smoky, tangy flavors, it makes a delicious and satisfying meal or side dish for warm days or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded grilled chicken
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 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. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down 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 season with salt and pepper as needed.
  3. Combine the salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, celery, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Add the dressing. Pour the BBQ dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the pasta and veggies are well covered for the best flavor in every bite.
  5. Chill before serving. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to fully chill.
  6. Serve and enjoy. Give the salad a final stir before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and serve it chilled as a hearty lunch, side dish, or light dinner.

Notes

  • Use cooked, cooled pasta to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Grilled chicken can be substituted with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Feel free to add diced bell peppers or avocado for extra color and flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor but should be stored refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken pasta salad, grilled chicken salad, pasta salad with BBQ sauce, summer salads, creamy pasta salad

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