Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad! Imagine a perfect blend of tangy BBQ sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and tender chicken, all tossed together in a refreshing pasta salad that screams summer comfort. Whether you're planning a backyard cookout, a potluck, or just craving a delicious and easy meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become your new go-to dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- If using uncooked chicken, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, shredded chicken, drained corn, and diced bell pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and ranch dressing until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the BBQ ranch dressing mixture over the pasta and chicken, stirring gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top of the salad for added freshness and flavor.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced taste.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir and taste. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing main dish or side salad, garnishing with additional green onions if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly grilled or rotisserie chicken instead of pre-cooked chicken.
- Allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully develop and meld together.
- Use high-quality BBQ sauce and ranch dressing for the best taste - homemade or premium store-bought versions work best.
- For added crunch, consider adding diced celery or toasted sunflower seeds.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- If you want a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure the perfect flavor balance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg
