This Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad is a fun twist on classic flavors. It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a spicy dressing that brings everything together perfectly!
It’s like a fiesta in a bowl! I love making this dish for get-togethers—it’s easy to whip up and disappears quickly. Plus, you can enjoy it cold, which is a bonus on hot days! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta holds onto the dressing well. You could also use penne or fusilli if you prefer. Even gluten-free pasta will work if you need a wheat-free option!
Cooked Chicken: I love using leftover grilled chicken for its smoky flavor. Shredded rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken can be handy substitutes if you’re short on time.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. For a different twist, try kidney beans or chickpeas! They’ll work just as well and give your salad a new flavor.
Corn: You can use canned corn, frozen, or even fresh! I usually go for frozen since it tastes sweet without the hassle of prepping. If you want to skip corn, try adding diced avocado instead for creaminess.
Enchilada Sauce: Both red and green sauces bring a tasty kick. If you want to make it milder, you can swap it for salsa or a mild taco sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh and Tasty?
Keeping your pasta salad fresh is key. Start by cooking your pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with other ingredients. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Boil pasta according to package directions and remember not to overcook it.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Letting the pasta chill in the fridge helps it soak up the flavors from the dressing and keeps it tasting great. A minimum of 30 minutes is ideal, but longer is even better!
How to Make Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (red or green), diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can have a tasty and refreshing dish ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, bell peppers, and chopped cilantro. Give it a good stir so everything is well mixed together.
3. Combine Pasta with Salad Ingredients:
Now, add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the other ingredients. Toss everything gently until the pasta is mixed in with all those lovely vegetables and chicken.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the enchilada sauce, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until you have a smooth and well-blended dressing.
5. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, take it out and enjoy it cold, with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure to dice it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
Can I Substitute the Pasta with a Different Type?
Yes! You can substitute rotini pasta with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions for the type of pasta you choose!
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but it’s best served cold, so make sure to enjoy it chilled!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply replace the chicken with diced tofu or chickpeas, use dairy-free sour cream, and ensure the enchilada sauce is vegan. You’ll still get a delicious and zesty flavor!
