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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad: A Summer Delight

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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish for those warm summer days, offering the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and zesty flavors. This salad brings together the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, the crunch of fresh vegetables, the heartiness of tender chicken, and the satisfying bite of pasta. Whether you’re preparing it for a family picnic, a potluck, or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a breeze to make, too! In just about 30 minutes, you can have a bowl full of deliciousness that will not only feed a crowd but leave everyone asking for seconds.

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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad: A Summer Delight

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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer dish you’ve been craving! 🍗🍝 Smoky BBQ chicken, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies combine to create a salad that’s both flavorful and satisfying. 🌿🔥 Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering! 😍 It’s a refreshing, hearty option that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.

#BBQChicken 🍗 #SummerSalad 🌞 #PastaSaladLove 🍝 #GrillAndChill 🔥 #QuickAndTasty ⏱️ #SatisfyingMeals 😋 #FreshAndDelicious 🥗 #SummerFlavors ☀️ #PerfectForBBQ 🍴 #HealthyAndHearty 💪

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1. Vegetable Oil: The vegetable oil is used to cook the chicken, providing a neutral base that won’t interfere with the natural flavors of the dish. It also helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan.

2. Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy chicken breast is the star of the dish, offering lean protein and a subtle flavor that pairs wonderfully with the barbecue sauce. It’s cooked until golden and juicy, then chopped into bite-sized pieces that easily mix with the other ingredients.

3. Red Onion and Jalapeño: The red onion provides a slight sweetness and crunch, while the jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat. Both ingredients add complexity to the dish and help balance the creaminess of the dressing.

4. Small Pasta Shells: Small pasta shells are used in this salad because they hold onto the dressing perfectly. The shape of the shells allows the sauce to cling to every nook and cranny, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

5. BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is the foundation of the salad’s flavor profile. It imparts a smoky, tangy sweetness that ties everything together. Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce to suit your taste.

6. Mayonnaise: The creamy mayonnaise dressing is what gives this pasta salad its richness and smooth texture. It creates a perfect contrast to the tangy BBQ sauce, resulting in a balanced and indulgent dressing that coats every ingredient.

7. Kosher Salt and Coarse Ground Pepper: These seasonings add just the right touch of flavor to bring out the best in the other ingredients. Salt enhances the natural tastes, while black pepper adds a little extra zing.

8. Red and Orange Bell Peppers: These colorful bell peppers provide crunch, sweetness, and an extra pop of color to the salad. The red bell pepper is mild and sweet, while the orange bell pepper brings a hint of fruitiness to the dish.

9. Corn: The addition of corn provides a bit of sweetness and texture that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients. It also gives the dish a seasonal, fresh appeal, especially if you use grilled corn for an extra smoky flavor.

10. Black Beans: Black beans add a touch of earthiness and heartiness to the salad, making it more filling. They also complement the BBQ flavors beautifully and add a bit of protein to the dish.

11. Fresh Cilantro: The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby note that elevates the entire dish. It’s a burst of freshness that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the dressing and the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant. The onions should be translucent, and the jalapeños should release their heat without becoming overly cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta just one minute shy of the recommended time, as you’ll want it to retain a little firmness for the salad. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and coarse ground pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they form a creamy, smooth dressing. The BBQ sauce will provide the smoky flavor, while the mayonnaise adds the richness and creaminess you’re looking for in a pasta salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the chopped chicken, sautéed onions and jalapeños, diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, and fresh cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and vegetables are well-coated with the creamy BBQ dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious dish that’s even more delicious after it has had time to sit. Serve it chilled as a side dish, or enjoy it as a main course for a light yet satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Pasta Alternatives: While small pasta shells are ideal for this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. You could even swap in gluten-free pasta if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
  • Add Grilled Corn: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the corn before adding it to the salad. The charred edges will add depth and complexity to the dish.
  • Make It Spicy: If you like your food with a little more heat, add extra jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for an added kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra beans or grilled tofu as a protein substitute to make this dish vegetarian.
  • Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out with other fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

This BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a wonderful twist on the classic pasta salad we all know and love, but with a smoky BBQ flair that takes it to a whole new level. What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its versatility and the way it brings together a medley of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce balances perfectly with the freshness of the vegetables, while the creaminess of the mayonnaise dressing enhances the whole experience.

Why This BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Will Be Your New Favorite

What’s not to love about a dish that combines smoky barbecue chicken, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta in one bowl? BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, ideal for any summer gathering or even a quick weeknight dinner. It’s light enough to be a refreshing side dish, yet hearty enough to stand alone as a meal. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it visually appealing, while the creaminess of the dressing and the juiciness of the chicken ensure that each bite is packed with satisfaction.

Here’s why this BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad should be on your list of go-to recipes:

  • Easy to Prepare: With only a few ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is simple and quick to make. It’s perfect for when you’re in a rush but still want something that will wow your guests or family.
  • Perfect for Summer: The smoky, tangy BBQ sauce paired with the cool, creamy dressing makes this salad a perfect summer dish. It’s the ideal side for grilled meats, burgers, or as a standalone meal for a light and flavorful option.
  • Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Add extra veggies, swap out the pasta for something gluten-free, or toss in a little extra barbecue sauce if you like things saucy.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. The combination of flavors and textures is something everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

To make this BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few key ingredients that together create a symphony of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

1. Vegetable Oil: The vegetable oil is used to cook the chicken, providing a neutral base that won’t interfere with the natural flavors of the dish. It also helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan.

2. Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy chicken breast is the star of the dish, offering lean protein and a subtle flavor that pairs wonderfully with the barbecue sauce. It’s cooked until golden and juicy, then chopped into bite-sized pieces that easily mix with the other ingredients.

3. Red Onion and Jalapeño: The red onion provides a slight sweetness and crunch, while the jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat. Both ingredients add complexity to the dish and help balance the creaminess of the dressing.

4. Small Pasta Shells: Small pasta shells are used in this salad because they hold onto the dressing perfectly. The shape of the shells allows the sauce to cling to every nook and cranny, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

5. BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is the foundation of the salad’s flavor profile. It imparts a smoky, tangy sweetness that ties everything together. Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce to suit your taste.

6. Mayonnaise: The creamy mayonnaise dressing is what gives this pasta salad its richness and smooth texture. It creates a perfect contrast to the tangy BBQ sauce, resulting in a balanced and indulgent dressing that coats every ingredient.

7. Kosher Salt and Coarse Ground Pepper: These seasonings add just the right touch of flavor to bring out the best in the other ingredients. Salt enhances the natural tastes, while black pepper adds a little extra zing.

8. Red and Orange Bell Peppers: These colorful bell peppers provide crunch, sweetness, and an extra pop of color to the salad. The red bell pepper is mild and sweet, while the orange bell pepper brings a hint of fruitiness to the dish.

9. Corn: The addition of corn provides a bit of sweetness and texture that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients. It also gives the dish a seasonal, fresh appeal, especially if you use grilled corn for an extra smoky flavor.

10. Black Beans: Black beans add a touch of earthiness and heartiness to the salad, making it more filling. They also complement the BBQ flavors beautifully and add a bit of protein to the dish.

11. Fresh Cilantro: The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herby note that elevates the entire dish. It’s a burst of freshness that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the dressing and the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant. The onions should be translucent, and the jalapeños should release their heat without becoming overly cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta just one minute shy of the recommended time, as you’ll want it to retain a little firmness for the salad. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and coarse ground pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they form a creamy, smooth dressing. The BBQ sauce will provide the smoky flavor, while the mayonnaise adds the richness and creaminess you’re looking for in a pasta salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the chopped chicken, sautéed onions and jalapeños, diced bell peppers, corn, black beans, and fresh cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and vegetables are well-coated with the creamy BBQ dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious dish that’s even more delicious after it has had time to sit. Serve it chilled as a side dish, or enjoy it as a main course for a light yet satisfying meal.

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma: A Sensory Journey

The moment you take a bite of this BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad, you’ll be greeted by an explosion of flavors and textures. The smokiness of the BBQ sauce and the tangy mayo dressing meld beautifully to create a balanced, creamy coating for the chicken, pasta, and vegetables. The chicken breast is tender and juicy, while the pasta provides a satisfying bite that contrasts nicely with the crunch of the bell peppers, onions, and corn.

The black beans add an earthy depth, while the cilantro lends a burst of freshness. The sweetness of the corn and the bell peppers offsets the smoky, spicy notes of the BBQ sauce and jalapeño, creating a harmonious balance that keeps you coming back for more.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

This BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients or make substitutions to suit your taste preferences.

  • Pasta Alternatives: While small pasta shells are ideal for this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle. You could even swap in gluten-free pasta if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
  • Add Grilled Corn: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the corn before adding it to the salad. The charred edges will add depth and complexity to the dish.
  • Make It Spicy: If you like your food with a little more heat, add extra jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for an added kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra beans or grilled tofu as a protein substitute to make this dish vegetarian.
  • Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out with other fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for any summer gathering, from casual backyard barbecues to more formal potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak, burgers, or chicken, and can also be served as a refreshing side dish to accompany your favorite roasted or barbecued vegetables.

For a complete meal, serve this pasta salad with a chilled beverage like iced tea or lemonade, and finish off with a sweet dessert, such as fruit salad or ice cream.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that will become a staple in your summer recipe collection. It’s full of flavor, vibrant colors, and textures that make each bite exciting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this salad will undoubtedly please a crowd and leave everyone wanting more. Try it today, and let your taste buds take a journey through smoky, tangy, and creamy goodness!

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