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–+ servings
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad: Quick, Flavorful Summer Bliss

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a quick summer dish that combines vibrant flavors and is adaptable for various diets.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups cooked rotini pasta opt for gluten-free pasta if needed
  • 2 cups shredded chicken breast can be swapped for black beans or chickpeas
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels canned or frozen
  • 1 whole diced bell pepper any type is fine
  • 1 whole finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese adjust based on preference
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce choose your preferred brand
  • ½ cup ranch dressing adjust to your liking
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • fresh cilantro or parsley optional garnish
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil optional for richness
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice splash to brighten flavors

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • measuring cups
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Stir gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
  3. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until thoroughly coated.
  4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the salad and toss lightly to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Before serving, stir the salad gently and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For meal prep, whip it up ahead of time and enjoy later.

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