Description
A delightful summer dish that combines smoky BBQ chicken with colorful vegetables in a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken: If using raw chicken, season the chicken breasts and grill until cooked through. Let rest, then dice. If using leftover chicken, dice and toss with barbecue sauce.
- Make the BBQ Ranch Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season to taste.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Drain the corn well.
- Combine the Salad: Add the diced BBQ chicken to the cooled pasta, then gently fold in the vegetables and cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over and toss to combine.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Chill: Fold in cilantro and green onions. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Final Touches Before Serving: Stir salad gently, taste for seasoning, and adjust as needed. Garnish with cilantro and smoked paprika before serving.
Notes
Letting the salad rest enhances the flavors. Option to use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 50mg