Save Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and creamy flavors. This recipe features tender honey-BBQ chicken chunks tossed with rotini pasta, colorful fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory dressing, making it an ideal choice for summer potlucks and outdoor gatherings.
Save This easy American salad takes only 45 minutes to prepare and serve. With its vibrant colors and satisfying ingredients, it serves as a hearty main dish or a standout side at any celebration.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups (about 300 g) cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey; 1/3 cup (80 ml) BBQ sauce (smoky style preferred); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) rotini or penne pasta
- Vegetables: 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup (140 g) corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen); 1/2 cup (75 g) red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup (75 g) celery, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup (20 g) red onion, finely chopped
- Dressing: 3/4 cup (180 g) mayonnaise; 1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream; 2 tbsp BBQ sauce; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Set aside.
- Step 2: Glaze the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken chunks with honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until heated through and glazed. Let cool.
- Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 4: Combine the Salad
- Add the cooled pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, corn, red bell pepper, celery, and red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Step 5: Adjust and Chill
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the fastest preparation, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. To ensure the salad remains creamy, make sure the pasta and the glazed chicken are cooled to room temperature before they are combined with the mayonnaise-based dressing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt and utilize light mayonnaise. To add more crunch and color, consider incorporating diced cucumber or shredded carrots into the vegetable mix.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad chilled as a refreshing main dish. It pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the smoky and sweet profile of the BBQ sauce.
Save With 22 grams of protein per serving, this Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. Enjoy this simple American classic at your next gathering!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this dish actually improves when made ahead. The flavors meld beautifully during chilling—prepare it up to 24 hours before serving and keep refrigerated. Add fresh garnish just before serving.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Rotini and penne are ideal because their ridges and nooks trap the creamy dressing. Fusilli, farfalle, or macaroni also work well. Avoid delicate shapes that might break when tossing.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just remove the skin and shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces before tossing with the honey BBQ glaze.
- → How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this pasta salad stays fresh for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so stir in a splash of vinegar or cream before serving leftovers.
- → What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt offers a tangy, protein-rich alternative with fewer calories. For a dairy-free option, try mashed avocado blended with lemon juice, or use a dairy-free mayo substitute.
- → Can I grill the chicken instead of sautéing?
Grilling adds wonderful charred flavor. Toss chicken in the honey BBQ mixture, then grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side. Rest before chopping and adding to the salad.