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This easy BBQ chicken pasta salad is my go to for potlucks and family barbecues with its creamy dressing smoky grilled chicken and pops of sweet corn and colorful peppers. It is hearty enough for a meal but also makes a fantastic side for burger night or summer gatherings
I remember making this on a sticky July afternoon for a neighborhood cookout and watching the entire bowl disappear before I had time to taste it myself Everyone asked for the recipe that day
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: This keeps the salad light yet filling Choose plump chicken and if possible organic for best flavor
- Small pasta shells: These catch all the creamy dressing Choose a brand with a nice texture like imported Italian pasta for best results
- Vegetable oil: For searing the chicken Keeps things juicy and prevents sticking Use a neutral flavored oil
- Red onion: Adds bite and color Look for firm onions with papery skins
- Jalapeno: Freshly minced Gives a mild heat and zing De seed to keep it mild
- BBQ sauce: The base of your dressing Choose your favorite type but smoky or honey BBQ works especially well
- Mayonnaise: Binds the dressing and adds creaminess Pick a good quality mayo with smooth texture
- Kosher salt and coarse ground pepper: To season everything
- Red and orange bell pepper: Sweet crunch and color Go for crisp firm peppers
- Corn: Brings sweetness You can use fresh grilled or canned just make sure it is well drained
- Black beans: For heartiness and fiber Use canned and rinse very well to keep the colors crisp
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh finish Chop right before mixing for the brightest flavor
Step By Step Instructions
- Sear the Chicken:
- Place a large skillet over medium high heat and drizzle the oil Once hot add the chicken breasts Cook for about four to six minutes per side until the outside is golden and the chicken is cooked through Remove to a plate and let rest
- Cook the Aromatics:
- To the same skillet add chopped onions and minced jalapeno Sauté for two to three minutes stirring often until the onions turn soft and begin to turn translucent This helps deepen the flavors without extra dishes
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the pasta and cook just one minute less than the box instructions so it has a bit of bite Drain well and rinse under cool water so the pasta does not overcook or stick
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a large salad bowl whisk together BBQ sauce mayonnaise salt and pepper until thoroughly blended This is the creamy smoky base for your salad
- Chop and Combine:
- Cut the cooled chicken into bite sized chunks Add to the bowl with the dressing Add in the sautéed onions and jalapenos diced peppers corn rinsed black beans and minced cilantro Toss everything together until every piece is coated and vibrant
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This salad always reminds me of my favorite summer ingredient corn Its sweetness matches the smoky BBQ and makes every bite feel sunny My son once declared corn the best vegetable after eating this salad
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Stir before serving as the dressing may settle I have found it travels well for picnics if you keep the dressing separate and mix just before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap black beans for pinto beans or use rotisserie chicken in place of cooked chicken breasts If you are out of shells try rotini or penne Fresh cilantro can be replaced with flat leaf parsley for a slightly different but still bright flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at cool room temperature The salad makes a tasty companion for grilled meats and burgers or as a light lunch on its own Try garnishing with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness
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A Bit of History
BBQ pasta salads are a distinctly American picnic favorite inspired by the love of smoky grilled chicken and creamy classic salads Combining the two gives you the best of both worlds I think the secret is the way the BBQ sauce seeps into the warm pasta infusing it with that backyard cookout taste
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie or any cooked chicken can be substituted for grilling, saving prep time.
- → Which pasta shapes work best?
Small shells are ideal as they hold the dressing well, but penne or rotini are good alternatives.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Give it a quick toss before serving.
- → Is the salad spicy?
It has a mild kick from jalapenos. For less heat, reduce or omit them as desired.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.