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High Protein BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A flavorful and protein-packed pasta salad featuring tender BBQ chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 cup BBQ sauce (for chicken)

Pasta

  • 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 red red bell pepper, diced
  • 0.5 small red onion, finely diced

Cheese

  • 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes

Herbs & Dressing

  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 0.33 cup BBQ sauce (for dressing)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt and pepper

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat grill to medium-high. Season chicken with spices and rub with olive oil.
  • Cook chicken: roast in oven for 18–22 minutes or grill for 5–7 minutes per side, brushing with BBQ sauce. Rest and dice.
  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then rinse with cold water and drain.
  • Mix Greek yogurt, BBQ sauce, vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
  • Combine pasta, chicken, vegetables, and cheese in a large bowl. Toss with two-thirds of the dressing. Chill for 30 minutes, then toss with cilantro and remaining dressing before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or extra cilantro before serving.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: BBQ Chicken, High-Protein, Pasta