Zesty Mexican Street Corn Chicken Pasta Salad

Zesty Mexican Street Corn Chicken Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring spiced chicken, sweet corn, rich cheese, and a creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 385

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz pasta (Barilla rotini recommended)
2 cups corn Fresh or frozen corn can be used.
1 tablespoon avocado oil For sautéing the corn.

Protein and Cheese

2 cups chicken (shredded or 1/2-inch cubes) Leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
1 cup cotija cheese (crumbled) Can substitute with feta or mozzarella.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Can substitute with parsley if desired.

Dressing

3/4 cup Greek yogurt (Fage 5%) Adjust for creaminess preference.
1/4 cup mayo Can adjust according to taste.
2 teaspoons chili powder (ancho or chipotle recommended) Adjust for spice tolerance.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon honey or agave
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Garnish

Fresh lime wedges For serving.
Extra cotija cheese and cilantro For garnish.

Method

Cooking Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Sautéing Corn

In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the corn and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it’s slightly charred and caramelized.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed corn, shredded chicken, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.

Preparing Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, honey (or agave), and fresh lime juice until smooth.

Combining Salad

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give it a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled with fresh lime wedges and additional cotija cheese and cilantro.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh corn when it’s in season. This salad keeps well and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Adjust the flavors and ingredients based on personal preference.