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Easy High-Protein BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad – Creamy, Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

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BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad – a high-protein, flavor-packed pasta salad with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and a creamy BBQ dressing, perfect for meal prep or summer picnics.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded grilled chicken
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp light mayo (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the dressing by whisking Greek yogurt, BBQ sauce, and mayo (if using) until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, celery, and cilantro.
  4. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes to chill and meld flavors.
  6. Stir again before serving, garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and enjoy chilled.

Notes

  • Do not overcook pasta; it should stay al dente for best texture.
  • Adjust BBQ sauce to taste; avoid adding too much initially.
  • Can be made ahead and stored in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Tossed
  • Cuisine: American