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Smokey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

This Smokey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a flavorful cold pasta dish made with tender chicken, pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy smoky BBQ dressing. Perfect for summer lunch ideas, BBQ side dishes, and easy chicken recipes.v
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta Salad Base
  • 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • ½ red onion finely diced
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley or cilantro
  • Smokey BBQ Dressing
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Toppings
  • Sliced green onions
  • Avocado chunks
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Crushed tortilla strips

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare chicken by shredding or dicing cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken.
  3. Chop vegetables: bell pepper, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and herbs.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chicken, vegetables, and corn.
  6. Pour BBQ dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Top with optional garnishes and serve cold.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
  • Add dressing gradually to control creaminess.
  • Best served chilled after flavors meld.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
  • Great for meal prep and picnic-friendly dishes.