Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad

Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad is one of those dishes that just make your taste buds dance. Imagine savoring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and crunchy vegetables, all coated in a zesty Sriracha dressing. It’s a harmonious blend that brings a kick without overwhelming your palate. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back picnic, having friends over, or simply treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, this salad hits the spot.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Plus, it’s super quick to whip up—under 30 minutes, in fact! This means you can serve it on busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients bring life to your table, while the creamy dressing adds just the right touch. The beauty of Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad lies in its versatility; you can enjoy it warm or cold, and it’s easy to adjust the heat to suit your liking. So, are you ready to get cooking? Let’s jump into why this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Why This Recipe Works

The fusion of flavors

One of the standout features of Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad is the vibrant fusion of flavors. Savory chicken provides a robust base, while zesty lime lifts the entire dish. Then there’s the Sriracha, which adds a spicy punch that makes every bite exciting. This flavor combination perfectly balances out in every mouthful, making it surprisingly addictive.

A textural contrast

The texture also plays a crucial role. The creamy dressing lightly coats the crunchy vegetables and the al dente pasta. You get pops of freshness from the veggies, chewiness from the pasta, and a creamy mouthfeel from the dressing. This contrast keeps things interesting, ensuring you never tire of the same spoonful.

Balance of heat

Another feature you’ll love is the heat balance. If you’re someone who enjoys a more fiery kick, feel free to increase the Sriracha. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder taste, just dial back a bit. This adaptability makes the Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad accessible for everyone, regardless of their spice tolerance.

Why You’ll Love This Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad

Quick and easy

Forget spending hours in the kitchen—this recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when all you want is something delicious without the hassle. Just follow a few simple steps, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

Versatile dish

This salad truly shines in its versatility. Whether served as a side dish at a picnic or as a light main course on its own, the Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad can adapt to any occasion. It fits seamlessly into potlucks, barbecues, or even just a casual family dinner.

Packed with nutrients

Don’t underestimate this salad. It’s not just about taste; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients. From chicken as a lean protein to colorful veggies, it offers both flavor and nutrition. With each bite, you feel satisfied and energized, knowing you’re enjoying a meal that’s good for you.

Ingredients for Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into ½-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 1 medium lime, juiced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn kernels, drained
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions for Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad

Boil the Pasta

To begin with, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook it al dente according to the package instructions. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and rinse it cool to halt the cooking process. Set it aside for later use.

Season and Cook the Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, take your diced chicken and mix in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until each piece is well-coated. Then, heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the seasoned chicken, stirring occasionally. You want it to turn golden brown, ensuring it’s cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes is usually perfect. Once done, remove it from heat and let it cool completely.

Make the Sriracha Dressing

While the chicken cools, let’s whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice until it turns smooth and creamy. Set this aside for the assembly phase.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta, cooled chicken, diced red bell pepper, sweet corn, and grated parmesan cheese. This colorful mixture is eye-catching and promises a burst of flavor.

Dress the Pasta Salad

Now it’s time to pour that delicious Sriracha mayonnaise dressing over your pasta mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—each bite will be full of flavor.

Serve or Chill

You can serve your salad right away or cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Allowing it to chill boosts the flavors even more, making it taste even better. When you’re ready to serve, don’t forget to garnish generously with fresh cilantro!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. It can also make a great side at your next barbecue or picnic gathering. The bright flavors will elevate any plate!

Tips for Success

To better suit your spice preferences, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of Sriracha. If you love a more intense flavor, pump it up! Also, letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving allows all those vibrant flavors to blend beautifully.

Variations

Want to shake things up? You can swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to your protein preference. You could even toss in seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers to add a refreshing twist. There’s no end to the delicious possibilities!

Pairing Ideas

This dish shines when paired with a refreshing iced tea or a crisp white wine. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or meats to create a hearty meal that will surely satisfy.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Definitely! Feel free to prepare the pasta salad a day in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
For sure! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or any plant-based protein you enjoy.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can choose whatever pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or fusilli.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, Greek yogurt works great as an alternative to mayonnaise in this recipe.

Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect harmony of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Its vibrant mix of ingredients not only makes for an eye-catching dish but also one that everyone will rave about. The kick from Sriracha adds a delightful zing that keeps you reaching for more. Ideal for any occasion, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire!

Print