Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad Recipe

Category: Salads & Side dishes

This colorful pasta salad mixes yummy chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and fresh veggies. It’s fun, filling, and perfect for warm days or gatherings!

You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just cook the pasta, toss in the ingredients, and voilà—dinner is ready. I love bringing this to potlucks because it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape holds sauces and ingredients really well. If you don’t have rotini, macaroni or penne work nicely as alternatives. Gluten-free pasta options are available too if you need them.

Chicken: Diced cooked chicken breast makes this salad filling. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or swap in grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist!

Black Beans: These add protein and texture. If you’re not a fan, chickpeas or kidney beans make great substitutes. Just make sure to rinse them well.

Enchilada Sauce: I love the flavor enchilada sauce brings. If you can’t find it, you can use salsa or even taco sauce for a zesty kick.

Cilantro: A must for freshness! If you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it entirely. Fresh herbs really enhance the taste of this dish.

How Do I Cook the Perfect Pasta for Salad?

Cooking pasta properly is key to this salad’s texture. Too soft, and it’ll be mushy; too firm, and you’ll have a hard bite. Here’s how to get it just right:

  • Use plenty of water to boil your pasta—about 4 to 6 quarts for 8 ounces.
  • Add a good pinch of salt to the water for flavor.
  • Cook your rotini until just al dente, according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  • Once done, drain immediately and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it for the salad!

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked pasta that’s a delightful part of your salad!

Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad Recipe

Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup enchilada sauce (red or green)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This colorful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to bring all the flavors together. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes until you can dig into a delicious serving!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced cooked chicken to the pan and season it with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and heated through. Then, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

3. Combine All Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta with the chicken, black beans, corn, chopped red onion, sliced jalapeño, and cilantro. Make sure you toss everything gently so that all the ingredients mix well.

4. Add the Zesty Flavor:

Now it’s time to add the flavor! Pour the enchilada sauce and lime juice over the mixture. Gently toss again to make sure everything is coated evenly. Taste and adjust your seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Chill and Serve:

Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors melt into each other. When you’re ready to serve, you can garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch.

Enjoy your zesty and flavorful chicken enchilada pasta salad—it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner party dish!

Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad Recipe

FAQ for Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions for the best results!

How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?

To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini. You could also use grilled tofu for added protein and a nice texture!

Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving. The flavors will taste even better after marinating for a while!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, you might want to add a splash more enchilada sauce or lime juice before serving again.

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