Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon is a delightful and quick dish that’s perfect for various occasions. This salad combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and the smoky flavor of turkey bacon, making it a refreshing choice any time of the year. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s loaded with flavor and nutrients, ensuring everyone at your table will love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Enjoy it warm or cold; perfect as an entree or a side dish.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of chicken, corn, and turkey bacon adds a unique taste profile that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome meal option.
• Great for Gatherings: Impress family and friends at potlucks or barbecues with this crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious pasta salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Frying pan: Perfect for cooking chicken and turkey bacon to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or other short pasta)
• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

For the Mix-ins

• 1 cup corn kernels (cooked)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 6 strips Turkey Bacon (cooked and sliced)
• fresh basil (chopped)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool before slicing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, sliced turkey bacon, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, basil pesto, lime juice, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a hearty main course or side dish.

Enjoy your Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon as an easy meal option that brings joy to any table!

How to Serve Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

Serving Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon can elevate your dining experience. This vibrant dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Serve it chilled as a refreshing meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture.

At Summer Gatherings

• Use it as a colorful side dish alongside grilled meats.
• Present in individual cups for easy serving at BBQs and picnics.

As a Lunch Option

• Pack in meal prep containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
• Add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for crunch.

During Potlucks

• Bring it in a large bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves on top.
• Offer a serving spoon and napkins for convenience.

How to Perfect Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

Perfecting your Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon can enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always a hit.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe bell peppers will add vibrancy and flavor to the salad.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving to adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice for the perfect balance.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this enhances the flavors.
• Customize the pasta: Experiment with different short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne for variety.
• Add protein: For more substance, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas alongside chicken.
• Garnish creatively: Top with extra chopped herbs or avocado slices for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this main dish well.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a crunchy, flavorful side.
2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection bring smoky flavors that complement the salad.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the pasta salad.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can offer a refreshing contrast, ideal for summer meals.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs well.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light, flavorful addition that matches well with pasta dishes.
7. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar adds freshness and acidity.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful pairing that echoes the corn in the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken enough can lead to blandness. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning liberally.
• Bold pasta cooking: Overcooking pasta is a frequent mistake. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Bold ingredient prep: Neglecting to chop ingredients uniformly can create an unappealing look. Dice vegetables evenly for a beautiful salad.
• Bold dressing balance: Using too much or too little dressing can ruin the salad’s flavor. Start with small amounts, adjusting to taste.
• Bold storage practices: Improperly storing leftovers can affect freshness. Make sure to use airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

• Can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best used within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon.

What type of pasta works best in Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon?

You can use orecchiette or any short pasta like fusilli or penne. Choose what you prefer!

Can I customize the vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or spinach.

How do I make this Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder, or mixing in fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow proper storage instructions.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different veggies or dressings to suit your taste. Give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Enjoy a quick and delicious Chicken and Corn Pasta Salad with Turkey Bacon that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this easy recipe today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta
• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 cup corn kernels (cooked)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 6 strips turkey bacon (cooked and sliced)
• fresh basil (chopped)

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and cool.
2. 2. Season chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until fully cooked. Cool and slice.
3. 3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, corn, bell pepper, turkey bacon, yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
4. 4. Adjust seasoning to taste; serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling, Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 85mg