Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Servings: 6 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe pinit

When it comes to vibrant, satisfying, and easy-to-make dishes, nothing beats a Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad. This crowd-pleasing recipe blends bold southwestern flavors with the hearty comfort of pasta and the freshness of crisp vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish for your next potluck, or a meal-prep solution, this salad has you covered. Let’s dive into the details, from ingredients and preparation to variations and serving suggestions, ensuring your salad is not only delicious but also perfectly tailored to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad

  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of smoky chicken, zesty dressing, and fresh vegetables creates a taste explosion.
  • Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or meal-prep option for busy weeks.
  • Simple and Quick: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is accessible even to novice cooks.
  • Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients for Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Salad

  • Chicken: 2 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled, baked, or pan-seared).
  • Pasta: 3 cups of cooked rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta.
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved.
    • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained.
    • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (canned, fresh, or frozen).
    • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced.
    • 1 medium avocado, diced.
    • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro.

For the Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option).
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed).
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
  • Salt and pepper to taste.

Optional Toppings

  • Crumbled cotija or feta cheese.
  • Sliced jalapeños (for extra heat).
  • Tortilla strips for crunch.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with a mix of cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the chicken:
    • Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook for 6-7 minutes per side.
    • Pan-sear: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil and cook for 5-6 minutes per side.
    • Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Dice, chop, and prepare all the vegetables as listed.
  2. If using frozen corn, thaw it by running it under warm water or microwaving briefly.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

  1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, and spices.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (e.g., more lime juice for tanginess or chili powder for heat).

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, and cilantro.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well-coated.
  3. Fold in diced avocado right before serving to prevent browning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish, garnish with optional toppings, and enjoy your homemade Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad!

Tips for Perfect Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad

  • Marinate the Chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and southwestern spices for an hour to enhance its flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Prep the components (chicken, pasta, and dressing) in advance and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.
  • Customizable: Add or swap ingredients like shredded lettuce, diced mango, or roasted poblano peppers for a unique twist.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Southwest Pasta Salad

Skip the chicken and add extra beans, grilled tofu, or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty vegetarian version.

Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad

Incorporate diced jalapeños into the dressing or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Dairy-Free Version

Replace mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and skip the cheese.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

  • Main Course: Serve with a side of warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
  • Potluck Favorite: Double the recipe for a large gathering; it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
  • Meal Prep: Divide the salad into individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week. Store dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Avocado Freshness: Add avocado just before serving, as it tends to brown quickly.
  • Dressing Separation: Keep the dressing in a separate container if you plan to store the salad for several days.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad brings together the best of southwestern cuisine in a single dish. It’s perfect for those who crave bold flavors and crave-worthy textures, all while being easy to prepare and versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Conclusion

From its smoky chicken and creamy dressing to the vibrant crunch of fresh veggies, Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad is a recipe you’ll find yourself making on repeat. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a make-ahead lunch, this salad is guaranteed to impress. Try it today, and bring a little southwestern flair to your table!

Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 200  C Servings: 6 Best Season: All Seasons

Description

A zesty and satisfying Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad bursting with bold flavors! Packed with juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy creamy dressing, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

For the Chicken:

For the Salad:

For the Dressing:

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken

    Preheat the oven to 200°C. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Place them on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp: 74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

  1. Cook the Pasta

    Boil rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

  1. Chop the Veggies

    Dice the bell pepper, slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and cube the avocado. Grill the corn if desired. Set all the veggies aside.

  1. Mix the Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste.

  1. Assemble the Salad

    In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken slices, chopped veggies, black beans, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.

  1. Chill and Serve

    Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 473.26kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 17.89g28%
Saturated Fat 3.41g18%
Cholesterol 60.25mg21%
Sodium 668.85mg28%
Potassium 986.99mg29%
Total Carbohydrate 51g17%
Dietary Fiber 8.15g33%
Sugars 7.11g
Protein 29.31g59%

Vitamin A 89.84 IU
Vitamin C 36.36 mg
Calcium 72.02 mg
Iron 2.69 mg
Vitamin E 2.82 IU
Vitamin K 19.06 mcg
Thiamin 0.34 mg
Riboflavin 0.28 mg
Niacin 9.74 mg
Vitamin B6 0.95 mg
Folate 139.77 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.15 mcg
Phosphorus 349.1 mg
Magnesium 98.73 mg
Zinc 2.15 mg

* Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate based on available ingredients and serving sizes. Variations in ingredients and portion sizes may affect the actual values. Always consult a nutritionist or healthcare provider for specific dietary advice.

Note

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid adding avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Variations: Add shredded cheese, jalapeños, or tortilla strips for extra texture. Use grilled shrimp or tofu as a protein alternative.
Keywords: quick, easy, healthy, budget-friendly, flavorful

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the components (except avocado) in advance and assemble them just before serving.

Is there a vegan version?

Swap chicken for grilled tofu, Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a vegan alternative, and adjust seasonings to taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well.

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