Description
This vibrant Zesty High-Protein BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, packed with tender chicken and fresh veggies. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces small pasta (rotini, fusilli)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced (approx. 1.5 cups)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt OR mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup canned corn, drained (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Monterrey Jack cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water; set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), and fresh lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooled pasta, diced cooked chicken, red onion, cilantro (if using), corn, and black beans to the bowl with the dressing.
- Gently fold all ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with optional shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins