BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

This BBQ chicken pasta salad is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for summer cookouts or casual family dinners. It combines tender grilled chicken and crispy bacon with a creamy BBQ sauce dressing that brings everything together in a satisfying bite. It’s a versatile recipe that you can make ahead and customize with your favorite add-ins.

I first made this salad for a family picnic and it was a hit. Now I keep coming back to it whenever I want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish that feels special.

Ingredients

• Pasta: one pound, pick your favorite shape, gluten-free option works well for allergies
• Olive oil: one teaspoon, helps keep pasta from sticking and adds smoothness
• Bacon: four ounces cut into pieces, brings crunch and smoky flavor, optional if you prefer a lighter salad
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: one pound, easy to grill or pan-fry, versatile protein
• Salt and pepper: to taste, simple seasoning to highlight the chicken’s natural flavor
• Red bell pepper: one cup diced, adds sweetness and color, go for firm and bright
• Corn: one cup, frozen or fresh works, sweetness pairs perfectly with BBQ
• Black beans: one cup, add fiber and texture, rinse well if canned
• Red onion: half cup diced, sharpness balances the creaminess, slice thin for best bite
• BBQ sauce: one third cup, smoky and tangy base of the dressing, choose your favorite brand
• Mayonnaise: one third cup, creates a creamy dressing that clings to the pasta and chicken
• Cilantro: two tablespoons chopped, optional fresh herb for brightness
• Green onions: one quarter cup thinly sliced, adds mild onion flavor and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss with olive oil. Stir every five minutes as it cools to prevent clumping and keep the texture light.

Prepare the Bacon:

While the pasta cooks, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to keep it crunchy without excess grease.

Cook the Chicken:

Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Grill or pan fry over medium-high heat for about three to five minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl combine the cooled pasta, crispy bacon, sliced chicken, diced red bell pepper, corn, black beans, and red onion.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl whisk together the BBQ sauce and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Stir in cilantro and green onions for a fresh kick. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Save

My favorite part is the dressing which balances creamy and smoky notes perfectly. One summer, this salad became our family picnic tradition because everyone loved how it combined simple ingredients in a fresh way.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the dressing mixed in so the pasta absorbs the flavor. If you want to prepare ahead, cook the chicken and bacon a day before for quicker assembly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap bacon for turkey bacon or omit for a leaner version. Use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian option. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to lighten up the dressing. Fresh or canned beans of your choice can be used in place of black beans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled veggies or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or diced avocado on top for extra richness. Crunchy corn chips on the side add a fun texture contrast.

Cultural Context

Pasta salads are popular in American summer and picnic fare, often combining cold pasta with fresh vegetables and creamy dressings. Adding BBQ chicken brings in smoky and savory flavors commonly enjoyed in Southern barbecue traditions, creating a fusion dish that's both comforting and lively.

Recipe FAQs

→ What pasta works best for this salad?

Medium shapes like rotini or penne hold the dressing well and mix nicely with other ingredients.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, cooking the chicken a day before helps develop flavor and speeds up assembly.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Using gluten-free pasta ensures the dish remains suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture.

→ How do I keep the pasta from sticking together once cooked?

Tossing the warm pasta with olive oil while it cools prevents clumping and keeps it light.

→ What fresh herbs complement this salad?

Cilantro adds brightness and green onions provide a mild sharpness, both enhancing the overall flavor.

→ Can I customize the dressing flavors?

Yes, adding ranch seasoning or herbs like parsley and dill can bring extra depth to the creamy BBQ dressing.