This Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad mixes tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a burst of zesty flavors. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for picnics or light dinners!
You can enjoy this delicious dish cold or at room temperature—no need to turn up the oven! Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress your taste buds and your friends! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This fun, corkscrew-shaped pasta holds sauces well. If you don’t have rotini, any small pasta like fusilli, penne, or bowties can work just fine!
Cooked Chicken: I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer, you can use shredded turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you need a different option, try kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a change!
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought sauce is easy, but you can make your own with tomatoes, chili powder, and spices if desired. If you want it milder, try using salsa instead.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat, but you can omit them entirely or use mild banana peppers if you’d rather keep things gentle.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking pasta perfectly is key to a great salad! Follow these steps for al dente pasta that holds its shape:
- Boil plenty of salted water before adding the pasta. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Check the package for cooking times but start testing a minute earlier. You want it tender but with a slight bite when you chew.
- Once it’s done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
How to Make Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (seeded for less heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 to 1.5 cups enchilada sauce (red)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 lime, juiced (plus wedges for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking and an additional 30 minutes to chill. In total, you’ll be ready to serve this delicious pasta salad in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (it should still have a little bite!). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the rest!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Take your cubed chicken breast and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over it until the chicken is well-coated with flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and nicely browned. Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool a bit.
4. Combine All Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta, cooked chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. Give everything a good mix so it’s evenly combined.
5. Add the Dressing:
Pour the enchilada sauce over the salad mixture and squeeze in the juice of one lime. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are coated in the sauce.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pasta salad a taste and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if you feel it needs a little extra kick!
7. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those tasty flavors meld together.
8. Serve:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this fresh, vibrant meal!
This easy zesty chicken enchilada pasta salad is perfect for lunches, picnics, or a light family dinner. You’ll love the flavor and colors it brings to your table!
FAQ for Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat rotini or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance; just keep it covered in the fridge. It may keep even better as the flavors meld overnight!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, stir well and, if needed, add a little more enchilada sauce or a splash of lime juice to refresh it!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want to switch things up, try using black bean or corn salad instead of chicken, or you could use grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added flavor!
