This Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, colorful peppers, and tasty pasta in a fun, zesty dish. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
You can serve it warm or cold, which makes it a great dish for potlucks or picnics. I often make extra just to enjoy leftovers the next day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta adds a fun shape, but you can use any pasta you have on hand, like rotini or penne. Whole wheat pasta is a good option for added fiber!
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for this salad because it’s quick and flavorful. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even a can of beans for a vegetarian twist.
Beans and Corn: Black beans are a tasty choice, but you can substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas. Fresh corn is great in summer; frozen corn works well year-round for convenience!
Cheese: While cheddar is wonderful, feel free to experiment. Feta or pepper jack can add a different flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
Dressing: I enjoy ranch dressing, but if you’re looking for something lighter, a vinaigrette or Greek yogurt can be delicious alternatives. Adding lime juice brightens the flavors, so don’t skip it!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta for a Salad?
Cooking pasta properly is key for a good salad texture! Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the pasta. This enhances the flavor.
- Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, so the pasta has a slight bite.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly, preventing it from getting mushy in the salad.
Following these steps will keep your pasta perfectly firm and prevent clumping when mixed with other ingredients.
Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
Vegetables and Beans:
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
Spices:
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or your favorite creamy dressing
- 2 tablespoons salsa
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to have this scrumptious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely before using.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell peppers, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together gently to mix evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything well until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, garnish with extra cilantro if you like. Enjoy your refreshing Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature!
This recipe makes a colorful, flavorful, and hearty pasta salad packed with all the vibrant tastes of chicken fajitas! Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta gives a fun shape, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can make it a day ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier!
What Can I Substitute for the Ranch Dressing?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of lime juice and spices for a creamy texture. Alternatively, a vinaigrette dressing can add a nice tang if you’re looking for a zesty kick!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing after sitting, feel free to add a little more dressing or olive oil before serving to freshen it up!
