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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines tender grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and crisp vegetables tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This delightful salad is ideal for picnics, family gatherings, or as a quick weeknight meal. With its vibrant presentation and rich flavors, it will surely become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the ease of preparation while savoring every delicious bite!

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 8 oz short pasta (like rotini or penne)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. 1. Cook the Chicken: Preheat grill or stovetop pan to medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest before dicing.
  2. 2. Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
  3. 3. Chop Your Veggies: Dice bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, and halve cherry tomatoes.
  4. 4. Mix It All Together: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, veggies, and diced chicken. Drizzle with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and barbecue sauce; toss to coat evenly.
  5. 5. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. 6. Serve Up: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature as a side or main dish.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 290g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added flavor depth, marinate the chicken for up to an hour before grilling. - Swap chicken for turkey or beef for a different twist. - Feel free to add corn or other favorite veggies to customize your salad.