Cajun Chicken Pasta Salad (Print)

Cajun-spiced chicken, pasta, and vibrant veggies tossed in creamy dressing for a zesty, refreshing dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Poultry Component

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Pasta Base

04 - 9 ounces penne or rotini pasta

→ Vegetable Medley

05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
08 - 3.5 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
09 - 1.7 ounces sweetcorn (canned or thawed frozen)
10 - 2 green onions, sliced

→ Creamy Dressing

11 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
12 - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
14 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
15 - 1 teaspoon honey
16 - 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
17 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Garnish

18 - Fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the pasta in generously salted boiling water following package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, rub the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
03 - Heat a ridged grill pan or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side, ensuring they are cooked through with clear juices. Allow the poultry to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips or cubes.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared pasta, diced bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, sweetcorn, and sliced green onions.
05 - In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Add the sliced chicken and the prepared dressing to the bowl containing the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss to ensure all components are evenly coated.
07 - Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if using. This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Bursting with fresh flavor and just the right amount of kick
  • Wholesome yet indulgent thanks to Greek yogurt dressing
  • Ready in under an hour with basic cooking skills
  • Great for meal prep and gatherings
  • Stacks up well against store-bought salads every time
02 -
  • High in protein and fiber thanks to chicken and veggies
  • Naturally adaptable for gluten free or dairy free diets
  • Perfect make-ahead meal that actually tastes better the next day
03 -
  • The key to juicy flavorful chicken is letting it rest before slicing This keeps all the moisture locked inside
  • Mix your dressing in a glass bowl for easier cleaning and a smoother consistency
  • If making ahead freshen it up with an extra squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving

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