Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken Recipe

If you haven’t yet tried Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken, you’re in for an absolute treat that brings the vibrant spirit of Mexican street corn right to your table with an exciting twist. This dish perfectly balances tender pasta with juicy grilled chicken, fresh charred corn, and a creamy, tangy dressing bursting with smoky and zesty flavors. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick dinner that feels like a celebration, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken starts with simple, fresh ingredients that each add their own unique texture and flavor. Every component plays a vital role, from the creamy dressing that binds everything together to the grilled corn’s subtle char and the savory chicken that boosts the protein and heartiness of the dish.

• 16 oz short pasta (orecchiette recommended): Its cup-like shape is perfect for holding the creamy dressing and corn kernels.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps caramelize the corn for that irresistible smoky char.
• 6 ears corn (~3 1/2 cups kernels): Fresh corn is essential for authentic sweet and juicy bites.
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates the base of the creamy, tangy dressing.
• 3/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds freshness and a slight tang that brightens the whole salad.
• 1/4 cup lime juice: The citrusy kick that wakes up every flavor.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: To season perfectly and bring balance to the dressing.
• 1 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds gentle smoky heat, echoing traditional elote spices.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A subtle punch that blends seamlessly with the other spices.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses that deep smoky aroma characteristic of grilled dishes.
• 1/2 tsp cumin: Earthy warmth that adds depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne (adjust to taste): For a mild kick that brings everything alive without overpowering.
• 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled: Salty and crumbly, it mirrors traditional Mexican street corn toppings perfectly.
• 2 cups diced grilled chicken: Tender and smoky, it adds hearty protein to the salad.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro: Freshness and a bit of herbal brightness to lighten the dish.
• Tajín (for topping): Optional, but highly recommended for that final burst of zesty spice.

How to Make Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has just the right bite to complement the creamy dressing without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and allow it to cool completely; this step is crucial to avoid a soggy salad later.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

While the pasta is cooling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh corn kernels and sauté for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often until the corn develops a lovely golden char. This process mimics the flavors of Mexican street corn beautifully and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Let the corn cool once it’s charred to perfection.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne. This creamy, tangy dressing has the perfect balance of spice, tang, and richness to tie all the ingredients together into a harmonious whole.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, sautéed corn, diced grilled chicken, finely chopped cilantro, and the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle generously with cotija cheese and a little extra cilantro for that authentic finish—don’t forget a dash of tajín if you love a bit of extra zest!

How to Serve Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

Garnishes

Brighten your Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken by topping it with crumbled cotija cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For an added pop, dust a little tajín over the top—this gives a fresh and spicy hit that elevates every bite to the next level. A few lime wedges on the side allow guests to add a fresh squeeze of citrus as they please.

Side Dishes

This salad stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple green salad with avocado. Alternatively, some warm corn tortillas or fresh salsa can make the meal even more festive and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken in large, colorful bowls that showcase the vibrant ingredients. You can also layer it in mason jars for a fun portable lunch option. Adding extra grilled chicken slices on top or garnishing with edible flowers can turn this everyday dish into a centerpiece for your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

Because this salad contains creamy elements and fresh corn, freezing is not recommended. The texture of both the dressing and the pasta would suffer upon thawing, leading to a less enjoyable eating experience.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can gently reheat the grilled chicken separately and then mix it back into the salad, but avoid microwaving the entire salad to keep the dressing and pasta fresh and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While orecchiette is recommended for holding the dressing well, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells will work beautifully. Just make sure to cook it al dente to maintain the right texture.

Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want a lighter option. It adds a nice tanginess and keeps the creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare this salad without grilled chicken to make it vegetarian?

Definitely! You can omit the chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version. To boost protein, try adding black beans or grilled tofu cubes instead.

What if I can’t find cotija cheese?

Feta cheese makes a good substitute if cotija is unavailable. It has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that complements the salad well.

How spicy is this salad?

This recipe has a mild to moderate level of spiciness thanks to the chili powder and cayenne, but you can easily adjust the heat to suit your taste by adding more or less cayenne pepper.

Final Thoughts

Elote Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken is such a joyful combination of textures, colors, and vibrant flavors that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s effortless to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just discover your new favorite meal prep or dinner party favorite!