Best BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

This easy, creamy best bbq chicken pasta salad combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and a smoky dressing. It is the best bbq chicken pasta salad for summer potlucks!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 oz macaroni or your favorite short pasta

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced

• 1 cup sweet corn (canned or thawed)

• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prep the Mix-ins: While the pasta cools, dice your chicken, chop the red bell peppers, and rinse the black beans. Gathering these fresh ingredients is key to making this the best bbq chicken pasta salad you have ever tasted.

3. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until completely smooth and creamy.

4. Toss and Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, turning it into the best bbq chicken pasta salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce right before serving.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Everyone needs a reliable showdown dish for neighborhood gatherings, and this best bbq chicken pasta salad fits the bill perfectly. Because it holds up so well in the fridge, you can easily make this best bbq chicken pasta salad a day ahead of time.

The crunch of the fresh peppers paired with the smoky sweetness of the sauce makes every single bite of this best bbq chicken pasta salad incredibly satisfying. If you want to customize your best bbq chicken pasta salad, feel free to toss in some diced cheddar cheese or chopped bacon. No matter how you slice it, your guests will agree this is the best bbq chicken pasta salad on the table.