Best 2 Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

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**Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Fusion of Mexican and Italian Cuisines**

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with this tantalizing Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad. This delightful dish seamlessly blends the bold spices of Mexican cuisine with the classic comfort of Italian pasta salad. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a symphony of colorful vegetables are tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, creating a fiesta of flavors in every bite. Whether you're seeking a refreshing lunch option, a flavorful side dish, or a satisfying potluck contribution, this Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit. With its vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and irresistible taste, it's a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Southwest. So, grab your apron and let's embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the step-by-step recipes that will guide you in crafting this delectable dish.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad image

Dinner ready in 30 minutes! Enjoy this delicious pasta salad flavored with Old El Paso® salsa and made using chicken and corn - perfect for a Southwestern meal.

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 30m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 11

6 oz. (2 cups) uncooked rainbow rotini (spiral pasta)
1 (9-oz.) pkg. frozen southwestern-flavored cooked chicken breast strips, thawed, diced
1 medium avocado, pitted, peeled and diced
1 large tomato, chopped
1 (11-oz.) can whole kernel sweet corn, drained
1/2 cup sliced green onions
4 oz. (1 cup) finely shredded Mexican cheese blend
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Old El Paso™ Thick 'n Chunky salsa
1 (11-oz.) pkg. torn romaine and iceberg lettuce blend (6 cups)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Steps:

  • Cook and drain rotini as directed on package. Rinse with cold water to cool. Drain well.
  • Meanwhile, in large bowl, mix chicken, avocado, tomato, corn, onions and cheese. In small bowl, mix mayonnaise and salsa.
  • Add rotini to salad; stir gently to mix. Add mayonnaise mixture to salad; toss to coat. Arrange lettuce blend on individual plates. Spoon salad over lettuce. Sprinkle with cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 565, Carbohydrate 40 g, Cholesterol 70 mg, Fat 7, Fiber 5 g, Protein 25 g, SaturatedFat 9 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 775 mg, Sugar 7 g

SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN AND PASTA SALAD



Southwestern Chicken and Pasta Salad image

Provided by Erin Renouf Mylroie

Categories     Salad     Chicken     Pasta     Tomato     Kid-Friendly     Quick & Easy     Back to School     Summer     Cilantro     Bon Appétit     California     Small Plates

Yield Serves 8

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 pound farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups diced cooked chicken
8 green onions, chopped
6 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 15-ounce can golden hominy, drained
1 15-ounce can black beans, drained
1 12-ounce bottle mild green taco sauce
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Steps:

  • Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite. Drain; rinse under cold running water and drain again.
  • Transfer pasta to large bowl. Add oil and toss to coat. Mix in chicken, green onions, tomatoes, hominy, beans, taco sauce and cilantro. Season salad generously with salt and pepper.

Tips:

  • Use a variety of colorful vegetables. This will make your pasta salad more visually appealing and nutritious.
  • Don't overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken is tough and dry. Cook it just until it is cooked through, or about 10 minutes.
  • Use a good quality pasta. A good quality pasta will hold its shape better and not get mushy.
  • Don't overdress the salad. Too much dressing will make the salad soggy. Add just enough to coat the pasta and vegetables.
  • Let the salad chill before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become more firm.

Conclusion:

Southwestern chicken pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. It is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. The salad is full of flavor, thanks to the combination of Southwestern spices, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. If you are looking for a healthy and delicious summer salad, southwestern chicken pasta salad is a great option.

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