Homemade BBQ Chicken with Pasta Salad: Simple, Fresh, and Irresistible

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and light? This BBQ Chicken with Pasta Salad is the perfect solution. With juicy grilled BBQ chicken paired with a creamy, tangy pasta salad, this meal is a balance of savory, zesty, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a weeknight dinner, a family barbecue, or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress your guests while keeping things simple.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal prep, and is lightened up without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavor-Packed: BBQ chicken and creamy pasta salad come together to create a satisfying meal.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, seasonings, or pasta variations.
Perfect for Summer & BBQs: Ideal for outdoor dining, picnics, or family gatherings.
Balanced Meal: Protein-packed chicken paired with a lightened-up pasta salad.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (low-sugar or homemade for a lighter option)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Salad:

• 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite type)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for a creamy, protein-packed base)
• ¼ cup light mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup chopped red onion

Instructions

Cook the BBQ Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then rub with olive oil.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
5. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or serving whole.

Prepare the Pasta Salad

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Stir in the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion until well combined.
5. Chill the pasta salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve the BBQ chicken alongside a generous portion of pasta salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and extra flavor, if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 35g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 5g

Tips for Success

• Grill the Chicken with Care: Be sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Customize the Pasta Salad: Add extra veggies like corn, peas, or spinach to the pasta salad for more texture and nutrients.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare the pasta salad the day before to let the flavors really develop.
• Add Extra Protein: For an extra boost of protein, try adding grilled shrimp or chicken to the pasta salad.
• Dress it Lightly: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of mayo or Greek yogurt, or substitute with a vinaigrette dressing.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced & Filling: Lean protein from the chicken paired with fiber-rich pasta and fresh veggies make for a hearty yet healthy meal.
• Simple & Flavorful: With the smoky BBQ chicken and tangy, creamy pasta salad, you get a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors.
• Easy to Make: Both components of the meal are simple to prepare and require only a few ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Great for Meal Prep: This meal keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.

This BBQ Chicken with Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. The juicy BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta salad, creating a meal that will leave you feeling full and happy. It’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish at your next gathering or as a satisfying weeknight meal!