Name: Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta (like orecchiette or shells); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/3 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade); 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 cup cooked corn kernels; 1 medium red bell pepper (diced); 4 slices crispy bacon (chopped); 1 handful fresh basil (chopped); salt and black pepper (to taste)

When it comes to meal-prepping on a Sunday, I’m all about dishes that still make my taste buds dance later in the week. The aroma of spices melding in the kitchen and that rich creaminess of a good pasta salad are exactly what I want to bring to the table for lunch or an easy dinner. This Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly, combining savory chicken and pasta with the vibrant crunch of fresh veggies.

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Prep15 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total30 minutes
Serves4

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad

Meal prep has a way of becoming monotonous, but not with this salad! I’ve discovered that having a big batch of something delicious in the fridge makes weekday lunches so much more enjoyable. The thoughtful combination of protein and fresh flavors makes this salad a winner in our house.

Plus, it’s visually delightful with pops of color from the red bell pepper and sweet corn. Don’t we all appreciate a plate that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate?

What Makes this Recipe Unique

Speed: This salad comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy meal-prepping days.
Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of pesto, Greek yogurt, and light mayonnaise creates a creamy dressing that brings everything together wonderfully.
Protein-Packed: With chicken breasts and Greek yogurt, you’ll get a solid dose of protein in every bite, keeping you satisfied longer.
Crisp and Fresh: The addition of diced red bell pepper and corn adds a wonderful crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.

Estimated Macros & Calories

This salad is not only tasty, but it keeps the nutrition balanced as well.

(estimated per serving, without optional ingredients)

Calories: 380
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g

The Most Authentic Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad is all about hearty ingredients and satisfying flavors. Perfect for meal prep, it also makes a great side for any gathering or a delightful main dish for lunch.

Craving more? Try my High Protein Chicken Street Corn Salad.

Ingredient Notes

Short Pasta: I like using orecchiette or shells because they hold the dressing well, adding to the creamy texture without being overwhelming.
Chicken Breasts: Lean and versatile, chicken is a fantastic protein source that keeps the meal light yet filling.
Pesto Sauce: This adds a vibrant, herbal flavor that elevates the entire dish and enhances the creaminess of the yogurt and mayo.
Red Bell Pepper: This ingredient gives a crisp, fresh bite with a sweet flavor that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Greek Yogurt: Using Greek yogurt provides a nice creamy texture without adding too much fat, making the dish feel lighter and healthier.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it comes to a boil, toss in the short pasta and cook until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with the Italian herb blend, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil, then add the seasoned chicken. Cook it until it’s cooked through and reaches 165°F on a thermometer. Let it rest briefly before slicing.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the pesto, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy. If you need to adjust the consistency, add a few drops of water.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, corn, diced bell pepper, and chopped crispy bacon. Pour the creamy dressing on top and mix gently until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the rested chicken and arrange it over the pasta salad. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil will elevate the presentation and aroma. Enjoy this salad, knowing it’s not only delicious but made for easy lunches ahead!

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to let the pasta cool before mixing it in to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this ensures that it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
When mixing in the dressing, do it gently to maintain the crispness of the veggies and pasta.

Storage Tips

This salad stores well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you’re making it ahead of time, consider adding the crispy bacon right before serving to maintain its crunch. For the best flavor, enjoy it within 3-4 days.

Variations and Substitutions

For a flavor twist, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
If you want to use a different protein, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
To increase the protein content, serve it with a side of Greek yogurt.
For a gluten-free option, simply swap the short pasta for gluten-free pasta!

Why This Recipe Is The Real Deal

The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward it is. From cooking pasta to mixing the creamy dressing, each step is simple and not overly time-consuming, which works perfectly for anyone with a busy schedule. For me, that’s a huge plus—I want meals that I can whip up without too much fuss.

You may also enjoy my High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Every spoonful offers a lovely mix of flavors, textures, and, of course, a touch of comfort. You truly can’t go wrong with this salad, and it’s easy to make it your own!

More High Protein Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this chicken corn pasta salad recipe, these easy ideas are a great next step:

Want more? Browse all of our high protein salads recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad take to make?

Prep time for chicken corn pasta salad is 15 minutes and the total time is 30 minutes . It makes 4 servings.

How should I store Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

To store chicken corn pasta salad: This salad stores well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What substitutions work for Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

These swaps work for chicken corn pasta salad: For a flavor twist, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. If you want to use a different protein, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.

What is your top tip for Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

My top tip for chicken corn pasta salad: Make sure to let the pasta cool before mixing it in to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.

How many calories and how much protein are in Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

Our estimate for chicken corn pasta salad is about 380 calories and 34 g of protein per serving, without optional ingredients. These are estimates, not lab results.

Where can I find more recipes like Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

If you liked chicken corn pasta salad, browse our High Protein Salads category for more easy ideas.

The Bottom Line

I hope you give this Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Salad a try! It’s a delightful meal prep option that holds up well throughout the week and fills your plate with vibrant flavors. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

If you try this chicken corn pasta salad recipe, I would love to hear what you thought. Save this chicken corn pasta salad for your next busy day and share it with someone who loves easy high protein food.

Next on my list for you: Creamy Shrimp Avocado Salad.

Lauren Mitchell
Recipe Creator at The Cookly
Easy high-protein recipes for everyday life.

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