This Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of chicken, colorful peppers, and pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
You won’t believe how quick it is to whip this up! I love to make it ahead of time for busy days—it tastes even better after it sits a bit. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy fajita flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta is fun and holds up well in salads. You could swap it for rotini, penne, or any pasta you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta works too!
Chicken: I usually use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, consider grilled peppers or mushrooms as a tasty alternative.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. Canned chickpeas or kidney beans can be great substitutes if you’re out of black beans.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but canned or frozen corn works just as well. If you’re looking for a twist, try some diced jalapeños for heat!
Fajita Seasoning: If you don’t have this mix, use a blend of cumin, chili powder, and paprika for similar flavors. Homemade mixes can be less salty and just as tasty!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Stays Tasty?
The key to keeping your pasta salad flavorful is in how you prepare each component. Make sure to rinse your pasta with cold water right after cooking. This helps remove extra starch and cools the pasta quickly.
- Mix the pasta with other ingredients and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to develop.
- Toss in fresh herbs, like cilantro, just before serving to keep them bright and fresh. Add additional lime juice to enhance the flavors if needed.
- If making ahead, consider leaving the cheese out until serving to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming too soft.
With these tips, your salad will taste great, whether it’s fresh or had time to chill! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) fajita seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes if you let it chill in the fridge before serving. In total, you can enjoy this vibrant dish in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain it in a colander and give it a rinse under cold water. This will cool the pasta down quickly and prevent it from cooking further.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with your shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green bell pepper if you choose to include it. Give everything a good mix until it’s combined well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and fajita seasoning mix until it’s fully combined. This dressing is where the flavor magic happens!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together gently. Make sure all the ingredients get coated with that tasty dressing.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the top and toss gently again to mix it in without bruising the herbs.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If needed, add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance the flavors.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those delicious flavors meld together nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish with a bit more cilantro if you’ll like. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for any occasion!
This pasta salad can be prepped a few hours ahead or even the day before, making it a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy the fresh and zesty flavors of fajitas in a cool and hearty pasta salad!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works beautifully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fussili. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary!
What Can I Use Instead of Cooked Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or want to use something different, feel free to substitute cooked chicken with grilled vegetables, chickpeas, or even tofu for added protein and texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before enjoying again, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a few hours before or even the day before, and refrigerate it to enhance the flavors. Just add a touch of lime juice before serving to freshen it up, if needed!
