Description
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish that perfectly balances the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this lightened-up creamy pasta salad brings together wholesome ingredients that everyone will enjoy. With quick preparation in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings. The dish is versatile, allowing you to serve it warm or cold, as a main course or a delightful side. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying—sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 boneless/skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups uncooked pasta
- 1 avocado (chopped)
- 1 cup smoked cheddar (grated)
- Handful cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 medium red onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- 2 dashes Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (I used 2%)
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pinch of garlic powder
Instructions
- Butterfly and halve the chicken breasts for even cooking. Marinate them in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes.
- While marinating, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, BBQ sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- Boil pasta until al dente; drain and cool under running water.
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Brush with BBQ sauce as desired.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with cilantro, onion, cheddar cheese, avocado, and dressing; toss gently.
- Slice grilled chicken and serve on top of the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg