Imagine a dish that combines the zesty tang of lime, the sweetness of pineapple, and the savory goodness of chicken in one incredible pasta salad. This Tropical Chicken Bowtie Pasta Salad isn't just a meal—it's a culinary vacation that will make your weeknight dinner feel like a tropical getaway. With vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and a mouthwatering dressing, this recipe is about to become your new summer obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Tropical
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Dice the cooked chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the cilantro finely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of lime juice and 1/4 cup of olive oil until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled bowtie pasta, diced chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- Pour the lime juice and olive oil dressing over the pasta salad. Toss everything together again to ensure that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the Tropical Chicken Bowtie Pasta Salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your Tropical Chicken Bowtie Pasta Salad!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use rotisserie chicken or grill your chicken with a light seasoning before dicing.
- Ensure pasta is cooled completely to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
- Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor profile.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrusy taste—bottled juice can taste flat.
- Feel free to add additional tropical elements like mango or red onion for extra complexity.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- This salad can be made ahead and keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
