Save to Pinterest When summer gatherings call for a crowd-pleasing dish, this Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad steps up as the ultimate favorite. Combining the comfort of rotini pasta with the bold, smoky-sweet flavors of honey-glazed chicken, it’s a vibrant main dish that brings excitement to any potluck or family dinner. The creamy dressing and crisp vegetables create a refreshing balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Save to Pinterest The beauty of this salad lies in the glazed chicken chunks. By sautéing the chicken in a blend of honey and BBQ sauce, each piece becomes sticky and flavorful, acting as the savory anchor for the pasta and fresh vegetables. Every forkful offers a medley of flavors that celebrate the best of American summer cuisine.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups (300 g) cooked chicken breast (bite-sized chunks), 1/3 cup honey, 1/3 cup smoky BBQ sauce, 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 cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup corn kernels, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion.
- Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 6
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Step 7
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the ultimate convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking breasts from scratch. Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes is a vital step; it allows the pasta to absorb the smoky dressing and ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To lighten the dish, try substituting the sour cream with Greek yogurt and using light mayonnaise. For added texture and nutrients, you can toss in extra vegetables like diced cucumber or shredded carrots. Always check labels for BBQ sauce and pasta if you need to maintain a gluten-free or soy-free diet.
Serviervorschläge
This pasta salad is a standout main dish, but it also serves as a fantastic side for grilled meats. To elevate the meal, pair it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which provides a bright acidity that cuts through the creamy BBQ dressing.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are hosting a summer garden party or just looking for a flavorful weeknight meal, this Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is sure to satisfy. Its colorful presentation and irresistible smoky-sweet profile make it a recipe you will reach for time and time again. Enjoy the perfect blend of savory chicken and creamy pasta!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it perfect for preparing the day before your event.
- → What type of pasta works best for this salad?
Rotini or penne pasta are ideal choices because their shapes hold the dressing well. Fusilli or farfalle would also work nicely. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti as it becomes difficult to toss evenly.
- → Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time. Simply chop it into bite-sized pieces and toss with the honey BBQ coating in the skillet until heated through and glazed.
- → 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 you might want to add a splash more before serving leftovers.
- → Can I make this lighter or healthier?
Yes. Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use light mayonnaise. You can also increase the vegetable ratio with diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or zucchini for more nutrients.
- → What should I serve with this pasta salad?
This stands well as a main dish for light lunches. For larger gatherings, pair it with grilled corn, crusty bread, or fresh fruit. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the smoky flavors nicely.