Description
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce with colorful vegetables and pasta. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this salad brings a joyful burst of flavors to your table. Its easy preparation makes it a favorite for busy weeknights, while its beautiful presentation impresses any guest. Enjoy it warm or chilled as you savor the delightful harmony of tastes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 oz short pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or sauté over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- 3. Add BBQ Sauce to Chicken: Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces while warm, then mix with BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- 4. Mix Veggies with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and corn. Stir gently.
- 5. Combine Dressing and Chicken: Pour Italian dressing over the mixture along with shredded BBQ chicken. Toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- 6. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg