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Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad

Savor the Summer with This Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad

This Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing blend of flavors, perfect for summer picnics.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 medium Chicken Breasts Consider using leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be omitted if grilling.
  • 8 ounces Spiral Pasta Whole grain or gluten-free works as substitutes.
  • 1 cup Whole Kernel Corn Use canned or frozen for convenience.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Can substitute with cherry tomatoes.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Other sweet peppers can also be used.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Omit for a milder taste.
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Chives can be used instead.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Can swap with light vinaigrette.
  • 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce Adjust type for preferred sweetness or spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce Coconut aminos can replace it for gluten-free.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used as substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion is also an excellent substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Fresh is preferred over dried.
  • 1 teaspoon Parsley Fresh enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Vegan cheese is a dairy-free alternative.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • wooden spoon
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic salt and black pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let cool before chopping.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cooled pasta, whole kernel corn, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped green onions. Toss gently with a wooden spoon.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and parsley until smooth and combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. If using shredded cheddar cheese, mix it into the salad for even distribution without overpowering other flavors.
  7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Chicken cooking tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. Don't skip the chilling time for the best flavor.

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