High Protein BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
High Protein BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that perfectly blends smoky barbecue flavors with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Ideal for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals, this salad is both satisfying and packed with protein. Each bite offers a delicious mix of textures, making it a favorite among friends and family alike. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the perfect warm-weather dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb total)
- 8 oz whole grain rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (low-sugar if preferred)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat grill or stovetop pan over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Let cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
- Combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cooled pasta in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Add grilled chicken and dressing to the pasta mixture; gently toss to combine.
- Serve in bowls garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg