Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an explosion of southwestern flavors that will transport you straight to a sun-drenched Mexican fiesta! This Southwest Chicken and Penne Pasta Salad isn't just another recipe – it's a culinary adventure that combines zesty lime, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables in one irresistible dish that'll have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add penne pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Once chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized cubes.
- Drain pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, black beans, corn, and diced red bell pepper.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, cook your chicken and let it cool completely before dicing to prevent the pasta from becoming warm and mushy. • Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more authentic taste. • Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop and meld together. • If you want extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the dressing. • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with grilled tofu or additional black beans. • Make sure to rinse pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking. • This salad tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep or potlucks!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
