This creamy chicken corn pasta salad brings together tender chicken, sweet corn, crispy bacon, and colorful peppers. It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance!
I love serving this salad at picnics or gatherings—it’s always a hit! Plus, it’s so easy to make; you just toss everything together and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is perfect for this salad because its shape holds the dressing well. However, you can use any small pasta like rotini or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives if you prefer them.
Chicken: I recommend poaching chicken for a tender result, but you can also use grilled, rotisserie, or even leftover chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for protein instead!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds flavor, but it can be skipped for a vegetarian version. Try smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a plant-based option that still gives a smoky taste.
Peppers: While red bell peppers add sweetness, any color will work—yellow, orange, or even green. You can also add other veggies, like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes, based on what you have on hand.
Dressing: Mayonnaise and sour cream make the sauce creamy. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a blend of avocado and yogurt. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use vegan mayo!
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking chicken well is key to keeping it juicy. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor. Heat your skillet to medium to get a nice sear, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Make sure the skillet isn’t too hot or the outside will cook too fast, leaving the inside undercooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps keep the juices in!
What’s the Best Way to Make Crispy Bacon?
Crispy bacon adds great crunch. Start cooking it in a cool skillet on medium heat, letting the fat render out slowly. This makes it crispy without burning.
- Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once crispy, remove it with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels to keep it crisp.
Embrace these tips to make your Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon & Peppers a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon & Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) orecchiette or small pasta of your choice
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Pesto Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the pasta, chicken, bacon, corn, and peppers, plus some time to mix everything and let those flavors come together. It’s quick and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). When done, drain the pasta, and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Take it off the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
3. Cook the Bacon:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook it over medium heat until it becomes crispy, stirring occasionally. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
4. Sauté Corn and Peppers:
In the bacon fat remaining in the skillet, add the corn kernels and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened. Don’t forget to season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Make the Creamy Pesto Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), pesto, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sautéed corn and peppers, crispy bacon, and chopped greens (spinach, basil, and parsley). Toss everything gently to ensure it’s evenly mixed.
7. Add Chicken and Dressing:
Place the sliced chicken on top of the pasta salad and drizzle the creamy pesto dressing evenly over the salad.
8. Serve:
Just before serving, toss the salad lightly to combine everything together nicely. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side for guests to add their desired amount. Feel free to garnish with extra herbs for an added touch.
Enjoy your delightful and vibrant Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon & Peppers – it’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a crowd-pleasing dish at picnics and gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette works great, you can substitute it with any small pasta like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold or gently reheat it in the microwave, adding a splash of dressing if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the pasta, chicken, and prepare the rest of the ingredients in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.
What can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, consider using crispy turkey bacon, smoked tempeh, or even sautéed mushrooms for a delicious savory flavor without the meat.
