This Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad is bursting with flavor! It combines tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and pasta all tossed in a spicy dressing that will make your taste buds dance.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up! Just mix everything and you’re ready to go. Perfect for lunch or a fun dinner with friends. Plus, leftovers? Not a chance! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta’s spiral shape is perfect for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to swap it out for fusilli, penne, or even whole grain pasta for added fiber.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Diced or shredded chicken is great here. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken if you have any. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or extra beans.
Black Beans: These add protein and texture. If black beans aren’t your favorite, pinto beans or kidney beans work just as well. Canned beans are absolutely fine—just don’t forget to rinse them!
Jalapeño: This ingredient gives a nice kick to the salad. If you prefer less heat, you can skip the jalapeño or use a milder pepper like a green bell pepper instead. Adjust according to your taste!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can make a good substitute, or you could simply leave it out. I personally love cilantro, but it’s all about your preference.
How Do I Properly Cook and Cool the Pasta?
Cooking the pasta correctly is key to this dish. You want it to be al dente, meaning it’s cooked but still firm. Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add the rotini and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for the salad.
Make sure the pasta is cool before mixing it with other ingredients. This helps maintain the fresh texture of your salad!
How to Make Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
Vegetables and Beans:
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to yummy finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set it aside.
2. Mix It Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, diced cooked chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and shredded cheese. Gently stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of the limes, olive oil, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s all combined and smooth.
4. Combine Dressing and Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. If you’re using avocado, fold it in carefully to keep it intact.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help all those zesty flavors blend together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish up the salad chilled, and add some lime wedges on the side for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini for any pasta shape you prefer, like fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using extra beans like kidney or pinto for protein. You might also want to add in some diced tofu or grilled vegetables for added texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado separate if possible to prevent browning. You can add a splash of lime juice over it before storing to help keep it fresh!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and keep it in the fridge. It’s best to add the avocado shortly before serving to keep it looking fresh and vibrant.
