Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Salad
Description:
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Salad is a spicy, flavorful fusion of tender chicken coated in Cajun spices, al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing that cools and complements the heat. Perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or meal prep, it offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fiber with a smoky-creamy taste in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
250g (about 2 cups) pasta (penne, rotini, or bow tie
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup corn (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley or coriander, chopped
For the Creamy Cajun Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1–2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and rub with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 75°C/165°F).
Let rest 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
3. Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, Dijon, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, veggies, and chopped herbs.
Add in sliced chicken and drizzle with the dressing.
Toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Chill and Serve
For best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Garnish with extra parsley or paprika if desired.
Time:
Task Time
Prep time 15 mins
Cooking time 15 mins
Assembly + chill time 10–30 mins
Total time 30–45 mins
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 of 4)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~480 kcal
Protein 28g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fat 26g
Saturated Fat 6g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 4g
Sodium ~650mg
For a lighter version: use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and whole wheat pasta.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Is it possible to make this spicy or mild?
A: Absolutely. Adjust the Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce for heat. Use less seasoning or a mild version for a kid-friendly version.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken?
A: Yes! Try grilled shrimp, tofu (for a vegetarian version), or even canned chickpeas.
Q: What’s a good pasta type for this?
A: Short pastas like rotini, bow tie, fusilli, or penne hold the dressing well.
Q: Can I serve this warm?
A: Traditionally served cold, but it’s tasty slightly warm too—jus
t skip the chilling step.