This chicken enchilada pasta salad is a fun twist on traditional flavors! It’s packed with zesty taco seasoning, tender chicken, and colorful veggies all mixed in a delightful pasta.
I love how quick this salad comes together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s great for leftovers—just don’t be surprised if it disappears fast! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds the dressing and ingredients well. If you can’t find it, any pasta will do, like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be great alternatives too!
Cooked Chicken: I prefer leftover rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease. You can also use shredded turkey or even beans or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, kidney beans or chickpeas can work well too, or you can leave them out entirely for a lighter salad.
Spices: The spice mix adds zest, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. If you like it extra spicy, add more chili powder or jalapeños. Conversely, use mild paprika instead of smoked for a different flavor.
How Do You Make the Perfect Zesty Dressing?
The dressing brings everything together, so it’s important to get it right! Here’s how:
- Start by whisking the olive oil, lime juice, and vinegar in a bowl. This combination gives it a nice tangy base.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder one by one. This layering of spices releases their flavors fully.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper—taste as you go to adjust according to your preference!
This step is key as it infuses the pasta salad with a burst of flavor. Don’t skip refrigerating for a bit—it allows those tasty ingredients to meld together perfectly!
Easy Zesty Chicken Enchilada Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 8 oz dry rotini pasta (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or your preferred vinegar)
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. Overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to enjoy a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Zesty Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be your zesty dressing—mix well to combine all the flavors!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing. Next, stir in the cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, corn, red onion, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Everything should be well mixed!
4. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad and give it a gentle toss to combine. This step adds a nice creaminess!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good stir and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zesty finish!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy zesty chicken enchilada pasta salad! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a gathering with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred or dice the chicken as needed and toss it in with the rest of the ingredients!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this pasta salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with more black beans or some diced avocado for added creaminess. You can also include other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! Just wait to add any fresh garnishes like cilantro and cheese until right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
