This Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun twist on your usual pasta dish! It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a zesty dressing that makes every bite burst with flavor.
Not to brag, but I can’t resist the crispy blackened spices on the chicken; they add a kick that’s just too good! Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal on warm days. Perfect for a picnic! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken works well as a substitute!
Blackened Seasoning: A blend of spices gives the chicken its unique flavor. If you don’t have all the spices, use a store-bought blackened seasoning mix. You can tone down the heat by reducing the cayenne pepper.
Pasta: Penne is great for holding the dressing, but feel free to swap it for fusilli, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for added nutrition. Gluten-free pasta is also a solid alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegetables: The mix of avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and green bell pepper adds freshness. If you’re out of one, diced cucumber or corn can be nice substitutes! You can also add in some black beans for extra protein.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Both offer creaminess! If you want a lighter version, use plain yogurt or even a homemade vinaigrette for a refreshing twist. Plant-based yogurt can substitute for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Master Cooking Blackened Chicken?
Cooking the chicken to get that beautiful blackened crust is one of the highlights! Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Begin with a hot skillet! Preheat it on medium-high; a hot pan is key for that sear.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season thoroughly. This creates a crispy coating.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side without moving them, allowing the spices to blacken. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Follow these tips to nail that blackened chicken and make your pasta salad a true showstopper!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning (paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup diced avocado
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together. So, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour total to get this fresh and flavorful meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to be mixed later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them. Generously coat the chicken with the blackened seasoning, making sure to cover all sides.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully charred. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, diced avocado, tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. This mix brings a burst of color and flavor!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Dress the Pasta Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. This will ensure that each bite is creamy and flavorful.
7. Add Chicken and Chill:
Arrange the sliced blackened chicken on top of the pasta salad. If there’s any remaining dressing, drizzle it over the chicken for extra flavor. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling step allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, serve the Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad either cold or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite of this hearty and colorful dish!
Bon appétit! 🥗🌶️
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely. The best method is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Just ensure it’s dry before seasoning!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pasta salad and dressing a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh, and add the sliced chicken on top right before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the ingredients, you might want to keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving again.
Can I Substitute the Penne Pasta?
Definitely! While penne works great, you can use other pasta types like fusilli, rotini, or even whole grain options. For a low-carb alternative, try using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice!