This colorful chicken fajita pasta salad is packed with yummy flavors! Tender chicken, colorful peppers, and pasta come together with a zesty dressing for a fun twist on fajitas.
I love how it’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s a great make-ahead meal too! I often enjoy it chilled on hot days – it feels like a party in my mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bowtie pasta gives a fun shape and holds the dressing well. If you don’t have it, use rotini or penne. Both work just as nicely!
Chicken: I recommend using shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s quick and packed with flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or some grilled veggies instead!
Black Beans: They add protein and a nice texture. If you’re short on beans, kidney beans or even lentils can be a good replacement.
Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness, but canned or frozen corn is perfectly fine too. Just heat it briefly to combine and enhance its flavor!
Bell Peppers: These provide crunch and sweetness. Feel free to mix in yellow or orange peppers for a pop of color. If you want less crunch, you can sauté them lightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Dressing Balance?
The dressing is what brings all the flavors together! Here’s how to make it just right:
- Start by whisking the olive oil and lime juice until combined. This is your base.
- Add in the spices – chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust based on your spice preference. Tasting as you go will help!
- If you like it a little sweeter, add honey or agave. It enhances flavors, especially if you use a tart lime.
Toss the dressing over the pasta right before serving for maximum freshness – this way, the pasta won’t get soggy! Enjoy the explosion of flavors and colors with every bite!
Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or agave (optional for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken fajita pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge for the flavors to meld together. In total, you’ll be enjoying this dish in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps to cool it down and keep it from getting mushy. Set it aside.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gather all your ingredients: the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, diced red and green bell peppers, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and honey or agave if you’re using it. Mix until everything is well blended.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently, making sure all of the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. It’s a good idea to be gentle so you don’t break up any of the pasta or chicken chunks too much!
5. Add Fresh Cilantro:
Fold in the 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro to the salad. This adds a lovely fresh flavor that really brightens things up.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and develop even further.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste if it needs any adjustments. If you like, sprinkle additional cilantro on top for a fresh touch. Serve it up as a main dish or as a delightful side for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals!
This vibrant, flavorful chicken fajita pasta salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, picnic, or casual dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Fajita Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is fun and holds the dressing well, you can substitute it with rotini, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary for different shapes!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken in This Salad?
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, chickpeas or black beans can work beautifully as a protein substitute. You could also use sautéed or grilled vegetables for a fresh twist!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This chicken fajita pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the flavors may continue to meld, so be sure to give it a good toss before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the salad, including the dressing, a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and enjoy it chilled. Adding the dressing right before serving keeps the pasta from getting soggy.
