This Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad is a fun twist on classic flavors! It’s packed with tender chicken, pasta, black beans, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a zesty dressing.
It’s like a fiesta in a bowl! 🎉 I love to serve it cold for a refreshing meal, especially on warm days. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for picnics or potlucks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral pasta works great for holding the dressing. If you prefer, you can swap it for penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta is also a good option if you have dietary restrictions.
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for this recipe—it’s convenient and flavorful! You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even shredded turkey if that’s what you have on hand.
Black Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber. If you need a substitute, kidney beans or chickpeas would work nicely too.
Corn: Fresh corn is delicious in this salad, but canned or frozen corn is just fine, especially for ease. If you want a sweet twist, you might try adding diced bell peppers instead.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought enchilada sauce saves time. You could make your own for more control over flavors. Salsa or taco sauce can be a great substitute if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooled and Ready to Mix?
Cooling the pasta properly is key for a refreshing salad. After cooking the rotini, immediately drain and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain in a colander, then rinse with cold water until the pasta is cool to the touch.
- Shake off excess water before adding it to your mixing bowl.
This method enhances texture and makes the pasta salad refreshing. If you rush this step, your salad might end up too warm!
How to Make Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
Veggies and Beans:
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (adjust based on spice preference)
Dressing:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just a little time, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will help prevent it from getting mushy.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together your cooked pasta, diced chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeños. Stir everything gently, keeping it well combined but also not crushing the ingredients.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the enchilada sauce, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a little salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well blended and creamy; this will be the zesty dressing for your pasta salad.
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture and toss everything together until it’s nicely coated. If you find the salad too thick, you can add a splash of water or a bit more lime juice to adjust the consistency.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all the flavors blend together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish out the salad cold and add some lime wedges for that extra zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for this salad, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like bowties, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more beans or grilled vegetables for protein. You can also toss in some diced avocado for creaminess and added flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if possible, adding it just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This pasta salad is a perfect make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just give it a good toss and adjust the seasoning before serving to refresh the flavors!
