Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

The new salad of your summer is Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe. You have the crunch of crisp vegetables like cucumber, sweet corn, and red bell pepper plus the tender savory bites of barbecue chicken. Cheddar cheese and a barbecue ranch dressing finish off this salad. Perfect as a main course or the side to all your summer favorites, this dish is sure to please any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce and ranch dressing creates a unique taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for anyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a delightful side at picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
• Loaded with Veggies: Packed with fresh vegetables, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it cold throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowls
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables quickly for optimal flavor.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely chopping ingredients into bite-sized pieces.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining different components of the salad before serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 large, boneless Chicken Breasts (approximately 1 1/2 lbs.)
– 2 teaspoons of Olive Oil
– 1 teaspoon of Garlic Salt
– 1 teaspoon of Black Pepper
– 1 can of whole kernel Corn
– 1 tablespoon of Butter
– pinch of Cayenne Pepper
– pinch of Black Pepper
– 1 seedless Cucumber
– 1 medium sized Red Bell Pepper
– 1 medium sized Red Onion
– 4 to 6 Green Onions
– 8 ounce brick of Cheddar Cheese
– 1 lb. of uncooked, spiral shaped Pasta
– 1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Restaurant Style Dressing (0.4 ounce) + the ingredients listed on the packet to make it (1 cup of Buttermilk, 1 cup of Mayonnaise)
– 1 cup of Barbecue Sauce (I use Open Pit Brand)
– 1/2 tablespoon of Soy Sauce
– 1/2 tablespoon of Garlic Powder
– 1/2 tablespoon of Onion Powder
– 2 teaspoons of Dried Oregano
– 1 tablespoon of Dried Parsley

How to Make Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Set a pot to boil for your pasta. Boil the pasta according to the package directions, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the package and pat dry. Cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper, then toss to coat. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Corn

In a skillet, add butter. Drain the can of corn and add it to the skillet with butter. Season with cayenne pepper and black pepper. Sauté for five minutes then remove from heat into a bowl; set aside.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces and sauté on low until fully cooked through.

Step 5: Chop Vegetables

While cooking chicken, dice your cucumber, red bell pepper, purple onion, and green onions. Add them to a large bowl.

Step 6: Dice Cheddar Cheese

Dice your cheddar cheese into small pieces.

Step 7: Make Ranch Dressing

In a bowl, prepare ranch dressing according to package directions. Place in fridge; you can make this a day in advance.

Step 8: Mix Barbecue Sauce

In another bowl, combine barbecue sauce with soy sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.

Step 9: Finish Cooking Chicken

When chicken is nearly done cooking, add a few tablespoons from your barbecue sauce mixture to it and sauté together. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 10: Combine Dressings

Once ranch dressing has set in fridge, mix in a few tablespoons from the barbecue sauce mixture. Adjust amount based on preference; about three tablespoons typically works well.

Step 11: Assemble Salad

When ready to serve, combine diced vegetables, cold pasta, cooled chicken, corn, and cheddar cheese in one bowl. Toss well with ranch barbecue dressing until evenly coated. Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top before serving alongside additional ranch dressing if desired. Garnish with dried parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Serving your Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad is a breeze, and there are many creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• A generous portion of this salad makes for a hearty main course, providing protein from the chicken and filling carbs from the pasta.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled meats or burgers at your next barbecue. It complements the smoky flavors beautifully.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide into individual meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This keeps everything fresh and organized.

With Extra Toppings

• Consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor and texture. These toppings can enhance both taste and presentation.

Chilled as an Appetizer

• Serve small portions in cups as chilled appetizers at parties. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without needing utensils.

How to Perfect Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Perfecting your Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad requires attention to detail, ensuring maximum flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the crunch and overall flavor of your salad.
• Cook pasta al dente – This ensures that the pasta maintains its shape and texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• Let chicken cool before mixing – Allowing the chicken to cool prevents wilting of the vegetables when combined.
• Adjust barbecue sauce based on preference – Feel free to add more or less barbecue sauce based on your taste preference.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Garnish generously – A sprinkle of parsley or extra cheese on top adds visual appeal and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful salad.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add depth to your meal.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the salad.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and balances out the richness of the dish.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds a refreshing sweetness that brightens up the entire meal.
6. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter pair perfectly for those who love carbs!
7. Pickle Platter – A selection of pickles adds tanginess, cutting through the creaminess of the dressing.
8. Caprese Skewers – Easy-to-make skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a fresh bite alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes in your Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe will ensure it’s delicious and well-received. Here are some common pitfalls.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions carefully and rinse with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken and vegetables properly can dull flavors. Be generous with spices and herbs during preparation for a flavorful salad.
• Skipping the cooling step: Adding hot chicken to the salad can wilt fresh vegetables. Make sure the chicken is cooled before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes: Cutting vegetables too large can lead to an uneven texture. Aim for bite-sized pieces for a more enjoyable eating experience.
• Not letting dressing sit: A rushed dressing can lack depth of flavor. Allow the ranch dressing to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance its taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will keep well for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to its creamy components, which may separate upon thawing.
• If you must freeze, store without dressing and consume within 2 months.

Reheating Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place salad in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute any shape of pasta according to your preference, such as penne or fusilli, for the Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe.

How can I customize this salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. You can also switch up the cheese or use different proteins such as turkey or beef.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Barbecue Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it ideal for summer gatherings or as a satisfying meal prep option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring every bite is tailored to your taste. Enjoy!