This Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It’s easy to make and perfect for any meal!
I love how the blackened chicken adds a spicy kick that makes each bite exciting. Plus, it’s great for leftovers or packed lunch—if there’s any left, that is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for blackening. You can use thighs if you prefer darker meat or even try tofu for a plant-based option!
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne are perfect because they hold the dressing well. If gluten-free is your goal, use chickpea or quinoa pasta instead—both are tasty alternatives!
Blackened Seasoning: A blend of spices gives the chicken its bold flavor. If you don’t have it at hand, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder to create your own!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a healthier swap for sour cream, offering a similar tanginess. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
How Do I Get Perfectly Blackened Chicken?
Blackening chicken adds so much flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the chicken dry and coating it with olive oil and blackened seasoning.
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot to achieve that crispy exterior.
- Place the chicken in the skillet, cooking each side for about 6-7 minutes until it’s blackened and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
This technique ensures a juicy interior while getting that lovely smokiness on the outside!
Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces pasta (rigatoni or penne works well)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
It will take about 30 minutes to prepare this delicious pasta salad. This includes roughly 15 minutes for cooking the chicken and pasta, plus time for chopping veggies and mixing everything together. It’s quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with olive oil and blackened seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and has a nice charred appearance. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Mix the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables: red and green bell peppers, red onion, Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), buttermilk (or milk), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the dressing into the vegetables until well combined.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooled pasta and sliced blackened chicken to the vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni or penne is recommended for their shape and ability to hold the dressing, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Rotini, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta would work well too!
What If I Don’t Have Blackened Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own by mixing equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the heat level according to your taste preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it again.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to be creative with your veggies. Cucumbers, carrots, or even corn would add great flavor and crunch. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
