Chicken Corn Pasta Salad

The Chicken Corn Pasta Salad is a creamy, hearty, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for picnics, cookouts, or busy weeknights. The sweetness of corn and the savory bite of chicken come together beautifully with tender bowtie pasta and crisp vegetables. A tangy, creamy dressing ties everything together in a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Whether you’re planning a light summer dinner or need a crowd-pleasing side dish, this pasta salad delivers in both taste and convenience. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a go-to option for those who crave bold, comforting flavors in a chilled, easy-to-serve form.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped

• 1 ½ cups canned sweet corn, drained

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, corn, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

7. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and give the salad a final toss. Serve cold.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Chicken Corn Pasta Salad is a classic, versatile dish that shines as both a hearty main or a delightful side. Combining tender chicken breast, sweet corn kernels, fresh vegetables, and bowtie pasta, this salad delivers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The creamy dressing made with a blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice wraps every ingredient in a tangy, savory coating that elevates the simple components into a crowd-pleasing, satisfying meal.

Perfect for warm weather gatherings, potlucks, or easy weekday dinners, this pasta salad is both comforting and refreshing. It can be enjoyed chilled right out of the fridge or served at room temperature, making it highly convenient for meal prep or picnics.

Nutritional Benefits and Ingredients Insight

One of the strengths of this dish lies in its nutritional balance. Chicken provides a lean protein source which is essential for muscle repair and satiety. Sweet corn adds natural sweetness alongside fiber and essential vitamins like B-complex vitamins and antioxidants. The fresh vegetables: bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion not only boost the salad’s flavor and color but also pack vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants to support overall health.

The farfalle pasta brings in the carbohydrate energy your body needs, especially on active days. Choosing whole grain pasta can enhance the fiber content even more, promoting better digestion and longer-lasting fullness.

The dressing combines creamy textures and tangy notes without overpowering the natural flavors. The use of Dijon mustard and lemon juice adds depth and brightness while balancing the richness of mayonnaise and sour cream. Garlic powder and smoked paprika introduce a subtle smoky warmth, making the salad even more flavorful.

Versatility and Customization

One of the best things about this chicken corn pasta salad is how easily you can tweak it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian/Vegan option: Omit the chicken and replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives such as vegan mayo and cashew cream. Add chickpeas or grilled tofu for protein.

• Add crunch: Incorporate celery, cucumbers, or toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) to introduce a fresh crunch.

• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to give the salad a spicy kick.

• Herbs and greens: Fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, or dill can brighten the flavor profile, and baby spinach or arugula can add a leafy element.

• Cheese lovers: Crumbled feta or shredded sharp cheddar can enhance the creamy profile and add complexity.

This salad is a great canvas to work with whatever ingredients you have on hand or prefer seasonally. The colors alone: golden corn, red bell pepper, bright cherry tomatoes make it visually appealing and inviting.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This salad works wonderfully as a standalone light meal for lunch or dinner, especially when you want something satisfying but not heavy. It also pairs excellently with a range of dishes:

• Serve alongside grilled meats such as barbecue chicken, steak, or pork chops to add a fresh, creamy contrast.

• Bring it to a summer picnic or potluck as a make-ahead dish that tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

• Pair it with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a more filling meal.

• Use it as a colorful, flavorful addition to a buffet or family-style dinner table.

The salad holds up well over time, so it’s perfect for meal prepping and packing for lunches throughout the week.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Corn Pasta Salad

• Cook pasta al dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy once mixed with the dressing. Cook just until firm to the bite, then rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.

• Use freshly cooked or high-quality rotisserie chicken: This will greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your salad. Leftover roasted chicken is a perfect shortcut.

• Drain corn well: Excess moisture from canned corn can water down your salad. Make sure to drain and pat dry if necessary.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes or longer helps the flavors meld and the dressing thicken slightly.

• Adjust seasoning last: Because the dressing coats everything, taste and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity at the end to suit your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead

Chicken Corn Pasta Salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors develop more deeply after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy households or entertaining. Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir and add a splash of lemon juice or a little extra dressing if it feels dry.

Conclusion

Chicken Corn Pasta Salad is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition all in one bowl. Its creamy dressing complements the sweetness of corn and freshness of vegetables, while tender chicken adds satisfying protein. It’s flexible enough to adapt to a range of diets and flavor preferences, making it a staple recipe for any kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, packing lunch for work, or simply want a quick meal that tastes like a treat, this salad checks all the boxes. Easy to prepare, full of vibrant colors, and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.