Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken Recipe

If you crave a dish that bursts with vibrant Mexican street corn flavors while offering a satisfying, protein-packed meal, then you are absolutely going to love this Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken. This recipe is an absolute showstopper, combining tender pasta, charred corn, juicy grilled chicken, and a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together in pure harmony. It’s a lively, colorful salad that works wonderfully for a quick dinner, meal prep, or to impress guests at your next get-together. Get ready to elevate your salad game and savor every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken is refreshingly straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role—from the smoky, grilled corn adding a sweet crunch, to the creamy dressing that delivers all the zing you want in every forkful. Let’s dive into these simple yet essential ingredients that make this dish sing.

• 16 oz short pasta of choice: Orecchiette or similar pasta holds the dressing and toppings perfectly.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the corn to give it that irresistible char.
• 6 ears corn (~3 1/2 cups kernels): Fresh corn is key for sweet, juicy bursts in every bite.
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise: Provides a creamy, smooth base for the dressing.
• 3/4 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt): Adds tanginess and lightness to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup lime juice: Brings fresh zest and balances the richness.
• 1 tsp kosher salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
• 1 1/2 tsp chili powder: Infuses a mild heat and earthiness reminiscent of Mexican street corn.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and subtle savoriness.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky undertone without overwhelming the dish.
• 1/2 tsp cumin: Offers a warm, nutty aroma to complement the corn and chicken.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne (or more to taste): Gives a gentle kick, adjustable to your heat preference.
• 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled: Salty and tangy, perfect for finishing touches.
• 2 cups diced grilled chicken (or rotisserie chicken): Provides hearty protein for a meal-worthy salad.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
• For topping: Tajín seasoning: Adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick as a final flourish.

How to Make Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once perfectly cooked, drain the pasta and spread it out on a baking sheet or large platter to cool completely. This prevents clumping and ensures the pasta is ready to embrace the tasty dressing.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

While the pasta cools, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh corn kernels and sauté, stirring often, for about 8 to 10 minutes until the corn develops a beautiful light brown char that elevates its natural sweetness. Let the corn cool completely to prepare for mixing.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, and kosher salt. Then sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and bursting with layered flavors.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, charred corn, diced grilled chicken, and finely chopped cilantro. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold everything together, making sure each component is evenly coated with that creamy, tangy sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Final Touches

Sprinkle the salad with crumbled cotija cheese to add a delightful salty richness, and finish by topping with extra cilantro and a generous dusting of tajín seasoning for that classic Mexican street food flair. Give it one final gentle toss and it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

Garnishes

Garnishing this salad is where you can get creative. Fresh cilantro leaves, a wedge of lime on the side, extra crumbled cotija, and a lively sprinkle of tajín all add appeal and flavor pops that make each bite exciting. These simple touches take the presentation from everyday to festive in seconds.

Side Dishes

Pair your Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken alongside crunchy tortilla chips for scooping, a light black bean salad for contrast, or grilled vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition. This salad holds its own beautifully as a main, so sides are just the icing on the cake (or salsa on the chip!).

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this vibrant salad in individual mason jars for portable lunches or layered in a glass bowl so the colorful ingredients shine through. For a party, arrange it as a salad bar with extra toppings like avocado slices, jalapeño rings, and lime wedges, inviting guests to customize their own bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even have a chance to meld and deepen, making leftovers just as delightful as when freshly made. Just give it a stir before serving.

Freezing

Because of the creamy dressing and fresh corn, freezing this pasta salad is not recommended. The texture of the ingredients will change upon thawing, resulting in a less enjoyable dish. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or within a few days when stored properly.

Reheating

This salad tastes best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can gently warm the grilled chicken separately and serve it alongside the chilled salad. Avoid heating the entire salad to preserve the creamy texture and freshness of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

While fresh corn really shines in this recipe, frozen corn can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well, then sauté to get some browning and the signature char that adds so much flavor.

What if I don’t have cotija cheese?

If cotija is unavailable, feta cheese is a good substitute because it also brings a salty tang and crumbly texture. Parmesan works in a pinch but will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the grilled chicken and boost the protein by adding black beans, grilled tofu, or even crispy roasted chickpeas for texture and heartiness.

How spicy is this salad?

The cayenne and chili powder add a gentle heat that complements the creamy dressing without overwhelming the palate. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference, adding more or less cayenne as you like.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken holds up well in the fridge and makes for a flavorful, satisfying lunch or dinner ready to go. Just keep any garnishes like tajín or extra cilantro separate until serving for the freshest taste.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making this Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken enough when you want a fresh, exciting meal packed with flavor and texture. The fusion of smoky corn, creamy dressing, vibrant herbs, and tender chicken is downright addictive. Whether for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings, it always delivers happy taste buds and plenty of smiles. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes!