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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

A colorful and flavorful pasta salad combining tender rotini, juicy chicken, and a creamy BBQ ranch dressing, perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken
  • 2 cups cooked rotini pasta Make sure it is cooled.
  • 1.5 cups cooked shredded chicken breast Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup corn kernels Can be canned or frozen.
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper Any color bell pepper can be used.
  • 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped For extra flavor.
Dressings and Seasoning
  • 0.5 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite kind.
  • 0.25 cup ranch dressing Or substitute with a yogurt-based dressing.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
Garnish
  • to taste Fresh cilantro or parsley Optional, for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cheddar cheese.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing until well combined.
  3. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving
  1. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Notes

This salad stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed chilled and can be made a day in advance for flavor enhancement. Avoid freezing as it affects pasta texture.