There’s something undeniably refreshing about a dish that combines zesty lime chicken recipe/”>creamy chicken pasta bake Imagine the bright citrus aroma wafting through the air as you mix everything together, leaving you excited for every single bite. For more inspiration, check out this No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in lime chicken pasta salad?
- What type of pasta is best for lime chicken pasta salad?
- How can I make lime chicken pasta salad vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, often gracing our family gatherings amidst laughter and endless chatter. I remember one summer picnic when my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread” while trying to sneak seconds. It’s the perfect dish for sunny days, potlucks, or just when you need a zesty pick-me-up. Let’s dive into this flavor fiesta!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Lime Chicken Pasta Salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any busy weeknight
- The combination of lime and chicken offers a zesty burst of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible
- With its colorful presentation, this salad is sure to impress your guests at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins!
I once brought this dish to a family reunion, and let’s just say it disappeared faster than my uncle’s famous barbecue ribs.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 breasts for optimal flavor; adjust based on servings needed.
- Pasta: Use rotini or penne for great texture; they hold onto the dressing beautifully.
- Fresh Limes: Zest and juice these beauties for that tangy kick; always opt for firm limes for maximum juiciness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These bite-sized gems add sweetness and color; look for plump ones with vibrant skins.
- Cucumber: Refreshing crunch is key; peel if desired but leave some skin on for extra nutrients.
- Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a bright note; substitute with parsley if cilantro isn’t your jam.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best; it enhances flavors while keeping things healthy.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; always adjust to taste for maximum yumminess.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch of this brings depth; fresh garlic works too but can be stronger.
- Red Onion: Adds zing and color; soak in cold water if you prefer milder onion flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Chicken : Start by preheating your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook them until they’re golden brown outside and juicy inside—about six minutes per side should do it.
Prepare the Pasta : While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Toss the Veggies Together : In a large bowl, combine chopped cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion slices, and chopped cilantro. Mix them well so each veggie gets acquainted.
Create the Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice from those zesty limes, olive oil, salt, pepper, and more garlic powder if desired. This dressing will make everything sing!
Combine Everything : Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the bowl filled with veggies and pasta. Drizzle over your dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Let It Chill : For best flavor results (and because patience is a virtue!), let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows those flavors to marry beautifully.
Now you’re all set! Serve up generous portions of your Lime Chicken Pasta Salad at summer parties or cozy dinners alike—it’s bound to be a hit! refreshing ranch cauliflower salad.
You Must Know
- This zesty lime chicken pasta salad is perfect for hot summer days
- It’s refreshing, colorful, and versatile, making it a great dish for potlucks or BBQs
- The aroma of lime and herbs will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in lime juice while cooking pasta. Grill or sauté the chicken next, and toss everything together when ready. This method ensures maximum flavor infusion and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add in seasonal veggies like bell peppers. A sprinkle of feta or avocado can elevate this dish even more!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When grilling chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety
- For extra zing, add zest from fresh limes
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can make a huge difference!
It reminds me of that time I brought this salad to a picnic, and everyone wanted my secret recipe! Who knew something so simple could bring so much joy?
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in lime chicken pasta salad?
Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu work wonderfully as alternatives with delicious results.
What type of pasta is best for lime chicken pasta salad?
Bowtie or fusilli pasta hold dressings well and add visual appeal to your dish. quick lemon pasta dish.
How can I make lime chicken pasta salad vegetarian?
Just replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty option. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience a burst of flavor with this refreshing Lime Chicken Pasta Salad. Tender chicken, zesty lime, and vibrant vegetables unite in a delightful dish that’s perfect for sunny days or family gatherings. With its colorful presentation and irresistible taste, this salad will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 fresh limes (zest and juice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 medium cucumber (diced)
- ¼ cup red onion (sliced)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- 1. Preheat grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- 2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 3. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
- 4. Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl to create the dressing.
- 5. Slice grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the veggie mixture along with the pasta. Drizzle dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
- 6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
