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Flavorful Loaded BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe with Corn and Black Beans for Easy Summer Meals

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A quick and easy BBQ chicken pasta salad loaded with corn, black beans, and a smoky-sweet dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini or shell pasta
  • 2 cups shredded or chopped BBQ chicken
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 green onions, sliced thinly
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional extras: 1 diced avocado, jalapeño slices, shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Let drain well.
  2. If not using leftover BBQ chicken, shred rotisserie chicken and toss with ½ cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce. Set aside to let flavors meld.
  3. Dice 1 red bell pepper, slice 3 green onions thinly, and chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro. If using frozen corn, thaw it by running under warm water, then drain well.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise, ½ cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded BBQ chicken, black beans, corn kernels, diced bell pepper, sliced green onions, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad.
  6. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the beans or crush the corn.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, top with diced avocado or jalapeño slices before serving.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente and rinse quickly to prevent mushiness. Rinse canned black beans well to remove canned flavor and reduce sodium. Adjust dressing seasoning to taste. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Add avocado or jalapeños just before serving to keep fresh. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute mayo with avocado or plant-based mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken pasta salad, summer salad, pasta salad with corn and black beans, easy BBQ chicken recipe, potluck salad, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/flavorful-loaded-bbq-chicken-pasta-salad-recipe-with-corn-and-black-beans-for-easy-summer-meals/