Best 2 Mexican Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

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If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of Mexican and Italian cuisine, "Mexican Chicken Pasta Salad" is a perfect choice. This vibrant and flavorful salad features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a zesty dressing, all tossed together with cooked pasta. Whether you're planning a potluck, a summer barbecue, or simply looking for a quick and healthy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

MEXICAN CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Mexican Chicken Pasta Salad image

Cool, refreshing salad with a Mexican flavor. This can be served as a side dish or entree. (Prep time includes 1 hour refrigeration time)

Provided by papergoddess

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 1h25m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 19

8 ounces penne pasta (2 cups uncooked)
2 cooked chicken breasts, diced (about 2 cups)
1 (8 3/4 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 small zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then sliced
1 -2 stalk celery, sliced thin
1 medium sweet red pepper, sliced
1 medium green pepper, sliced (optional)
4 green onions, sliced
1 (4 -7 ounce) can green chilies
1/2-1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
2 cups lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or 1/4 cup yogurt
2 tablespoons ReaLime juice
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, rinse, and set aside.
  • Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
  • Combine all dressing ingredients; stir thoroughly.
  • Pour dressing over salad; toss to coat.
  • Chill 1 hour, then serve.
  • Note: Instead of mixing lettuce into salad, you can layer it on top to keep it from wilting.

CREAMY MEXICAN CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Creamy Mexican Chicken Pasta Salad image

Macaroni is tossed with a creamy cilantro dressing and chicken, corn, black beans, onion and tomato.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 30m

Yield 4-6

Number Of Ingredients 12

Kosher salt
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
1/3 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons sour cream
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
8 ounces dried elbow macaroni
1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken, skin and bones removed
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped
1/2 jalapeno, stemmed, seeded and minced

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Whisk the cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice and 1/2 teaspoon salt together in a large bowl.
  • Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Three minutes before the pasta is done, add the corn to the pot. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and add to the bowl.
  • Add the beans, chicken, onions, tomatoes and jalapeno to the bowl and toss to combine. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro. The pasta salad is best if served right away.

Tips:

  • Select high-quality pasta: Use a short pasta shape, like penne or rotini, to hold the sauce and toppings well.
  • Cook the pasta al dente: This means cooking it until it is slightly firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the dressing.
  • Use a flavorful dressing: The dressing is key to the success of this salad, so make sure it is flavorful and well-balanced. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs is a good starting point.
  • Add plenty of protein: The chicken is the main protein in this salad, but you can also add other protein sources, such as beans, tofu, or shrimp.
  • Include a variety of vegetables: Vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients to the salad. Some good options include bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and corn.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs, such as cilantro and basil, add a pop of flavor and freshness to the salad.
  • Season the salad to taste: Once you have assembled the salad, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or dressing.

Conclusion:

Mexican chicken pasta salad is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With its combination of flavorful ingredients, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

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