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Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

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Ingredients

  • 2 Boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbs Vegetable oil
  • 1 lb. Small pasta shells
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce use your favorite brand!
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Sour cream adds that perfect tangy creaminess
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard this secret ingredient balances the sweetness
  • 1 Red onion chopped
  • 1/2 Jalapeño I remove seeds for the kids' sake
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
  • 1 orange bell pepper seeded and diced
  • 1 cup Corn fresh in summer, frozen works great too
  • 15 oz. can Black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup minced Cilantro
  • 1/4 cup Green onions for that fresh bite on top
  • 1/2 cup Sharp cheddar cheese optional but makes everything better
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Chicken & Veggies

  • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken breasts, season lightly with salt and pepper if desired, and cook for 4–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  • Remove chicken and let it rest.
  • In the same skillet, add chopped red onion and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Boil the Pasta:

  • Cook small pasta shells 1 minute less than the box directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.

Make the Creamy BBQ Dressing:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground pepper

Assemble the Salad:

  • Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Add chicken, sautéed onion/jalapeño, cooked pasta, bell peppers, corn, black beans, cheddar cheese (if using), and green onions to the bowl with the dressing.
  • Toss everything well to coat evenly.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Chill Before Serving (optional but recommended):

Chill Before Serving (Optional)

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor and texture.