How to Make the Best Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad
This Southwestern Chicken Pasta Salad is a zesty and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Combining tender pieces of chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it's all tossed together in a tangy southwest dressing.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 8 ounces bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup corn kernels cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup bell peppers diced
- 0.5 cup southwest dressing store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chicken and taco seasoning, cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, corn, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- Pour the southwest dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the salad.