Ultimate Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto & Bacon

The aroma of Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon wafts enticingly through the air, making even the most skeptical eaters perk up. Picture creamy pesto mingling with crispy bacon, tender chicken, and vibrant corn dancing together in a colorful bowl of pasta. It’s a flavor fiesta that screams summer picnics and backyard barbecues.

This dish holds a special place in my heart—like that one friend who always knows how to cheer you up. I remember the first time I whipped it up for a potluck. Everyone was digging in, and I felt like a culinary rockstar as compliments poured in. You know it’s a winner when your dish is the star of the show!

Ingredients for Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rotini Pasta: About 12 ounces is perfect for capturing all that creamy goodness.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they’re lean and soak up flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Corn: Two cups of sweet corn gives that crunchy texture; fresh or frozen works wonders.
• Crispy Bacon: About six strips; because everything is better with bacon, right?
• Pesto Sauce: Use around one cup of your favorite creamy pesto for that rich flavor kick.
• Cherry Tomatoes: A handful adds freshness and color; they pop like little flavor bombs!
• Olive Oil: Just enough to sauté the chicken; it adds depth to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shredded or grated, about half a cup will elevate this dish to gourmet status.

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for taste; season generously but wisely!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper then sauté them for about six to eight minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In another skillet (or you can use the same one if you’re feeling adventurous), cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove from heat, let it cool slightly, then crumble it into delightful bits.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the cooked rotini pasta, diced chicken, sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and creamy pesto sauce until everything is well-coated.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle in shredded Parmesan cheese and mix gently. This adds richness that will make your taste buds sing.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

For best results, cover your salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes before serving. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Transfer to plates or a large serving bowl and get ready for compliments galore!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, which locks in flavor. While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta to al dente perfection. Finally, mix everything together with creamy pesto and crispy bacon for a dish that dazzles.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or add seasonal veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Experimenting with different herbs or cheeses can give your Chicken Corn Pasta Salad a unique flair every time.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, sprinkle a bit of water before microwaving to keep the pasta from drying out and maintain that creamy goodness.

Sometimes I whip up this Chicken Corn Pasta Salad for potlucks, and my friends always ask for seconds—it’s like they forget there’s a whole buffet waiting!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon?

To prepare Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon, gather the following ingredients: cooked pasta, grilled chicken breast, corn kernels, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy pesto. You will also need olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. This combination creates a delightful dish that is both hearty and refreshing. You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but rotini or fusilli work particularly well to hold the creamy pesto sauce.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon?

Preparing Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta and chicken, as well as chopping the vegetables. The actual assembly of the salad is quick and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Can I make Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you’re making it a day in advance, consider adding the crispy bacon just before serving to maintain its crunchiness. This makes it an ideal dish for meal prep or potluck events.

What variations can I try for Chicken Corn Pasta Salad?

There are many delicious variations you can try with Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon. For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and bacon altogether and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or nuts for added texture. Swap out the creamy pesto for a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter dressing. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion for Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon:

In summary, Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, crispy bacon, and flavorful creamy pesto. It’s easy to prepare in about 30 minutes and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a quick lunch, this salad offers versatility through various ingredient swaps while remaining satisfying and delicious. Enjoy this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

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Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon

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Chicken Corn Pasta Salad with Creamy Pesto and Bacon is a vibrant and delicious dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This colorful salad features tender chicken, sweet corn, crispy bacon, and creamy pesto, all tossed together with rotini pasta. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4)
• 2 cups fresh corn (sweet or frozen)
• 6 strips crispy bacon
• 1 cup creamy pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, sautéing for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Dice the chicken.
3. In the same or another skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Crumble into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and creamy pesto. Toss until well-coated.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix gently.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - For added crunch and flavor, consider adding seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or swapping chicken for grilled shrimp. - To maintain bacon's crispiness when preparing ahead of time, add it just before serving.