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As summer rolls around, the appeal of light, vibrant meals becomes undeniable. Pasta salads, in particular, stand out as a versatile choice for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and casual barbecues. They not only provide a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed cold, but they also allow for endless customization to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Among the many pasta salad recipes, the Zesty BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad shines with its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect addition to any summer spread.

Zesty BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Get ready to impress your guests this summer with a delightful Zesty BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish combines the smoky goodness of BBQ chicken with colorful vegetables and the perfect zesty ranch dressing. Ideal for picnics or outdoor gatherings, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition, making it a satisfying option for all dietary preferences. Discover how to create this vibrant and flavorful meal that will be the highlight of any event!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini pasta

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1 cup grilled zucchini, diced (optional)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite flavor)

1/4 cup ranch dressing

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.

    Prepare Chicken: If not already done, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

      Mix the Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini (if using). Stir until evenly mixed.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta and shredded chicken to the bowl with the veggies. Gently toss everything together to combine.

          Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

            Dress the Salad: Pour the BBQ ranch dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well coated.

              Add Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the salad.

                Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a good stir and garnish with fresh parsley.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings