This Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty mix of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and pasta. The bold spices give it a kick that wakes up your taste buds!
I love how this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Add your favorite dressing, and you’re good to go, making it a meal that’s both easy and super satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe since they’re easy to season and cook quickly. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even go vegetarian with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Pasta: Farfalle (bowtie) or small shells are great for this salad, as they scoop up dressing well. You could swap for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Spices: The combination of paprika, cayenne, thyme, and oregano creates that classic blackened flavor. If you’re short on some spices, feel free to use a Cajun spice mix instead, or omit cayenne for less heat.
Greens: I love using romaine or mixed greens for a crunchy texture. Spinach or kale could work too, but be sure to chop them finely.
Dressing: Ranch is a popular choice, but a creamy cilantro-lime dressing adds a fresh twist. If you’re vegan, choose a plant-based ranch or avocado dressing.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Blackened?
Blackening chicken adds incredible flavor, but it can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this helps the spices stick better.
- Use medium-high heat for cooking. This will ensure the outside gets crispy while the inside remains juicy.
- Don’t be afraid of the spices! Coat the chicken generously for that deep, smoky flavor you want.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender when sliced.
Following these tips will yield a delicious blackened chicken that pairs perfectly with your pasta salad!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces pasta (bowtie/farfalle or shells)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- 1 cup ranch dressing or creamy cilantro-lime dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken, giving you a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Blackening Spice Mix:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until the spices are evenly mixed.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken, then coat them generously with the blackening spice mix, making sure every part is covered.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil if necessary. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are blackened on the outside and fully cooked inside (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
5. Slice the Chicken:
After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. This will make it easy to mix into your salad.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped greens. Drizzle your choice of ranch or creamy cilantro-lime dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
7. Add Chicken and Garnish:
Top your pasta salad with the sliced blackened chicken. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro or parsley over the top for a fresh touch!
8. Serve:
Your Blackened Chicken Pasta Salad is ready! You can serve it immediately or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let those delicious flavors blend together. Enjoy your tasty and colorful meal!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta, chicken, and veggies in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything and add the dressing to maintain freshness.
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or even roasted vegetables. Just make sure to season the alternatives well to maintain flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy the best quality, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I Use a Different Dressing?
Definitely! While ranch and creamy cilantro-lime dressing are great options, balsamic vinaigrette, Italian dressing, or any flavor you love would work well too. Feel free to experiment!
