If you’re looking for the ultimate summer side dish that can double as a complete meal, this Street Corn Chicken Pasta Salad is it. Inspired by the flavors of Mexican street corn, this pasta salad combines sweet charred corn, tender chicken, creamy lime dressing, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro for a dish that’s packed with flavor in every bite.
It’s perfect for meal prep, cookouts, potlucks, or easy lunches throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Street Corn Pasta Salad
- High-protein and filling
- Perfect for meal prep
- Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor
- Great for BBQs, picnics, and summer gatherings
- Easy to customize with your favorite protein
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
- 2 bags frozen corn (street corn style works great)
- 1 box rotini pasta
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, cubed
- Or substitute shredded rotisserie chicken
- ¼ cup cotija cheese
- 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Street Corn Dressing
- ½ cup low-fat mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tbsp Tajín seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp water (or more as needed)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside and allow to cool completely.
2. Char the Corn
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the frozen corn and cook until warmed through and lightly charred in spots, stirring occasionally.
Once the corn develops some color, remove from heat and allow it to cool.
3. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Grated garlic
- Tajín
- Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Slowly whisk in water until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Pasta Salad
Add the cooled pasta, chicken, and charred corn to the bowl with the dressing.
Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Add the cotija cheese and cilantro and gently mix again.
5. Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve chilled and garnish with additional cotija cheese, cilantro, and a sprinkle of Tajín if desired.
Tips for the Best Street Corn Pasta Salad
Let Everything Cool First
Adding warm ingredients can cause the dressing to become thin and greasy.
Don’t Skip Charring the Corn
The slight smokiness mimics authentic Mexican street corn flavor.
Use Fresh Lime Juice
Fresh citrus makes a huge difference in the overall flavor.
Make It Ahead
This pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
Variations
Add More Vegetables
Try diced bell peppers, jalapeños, red onion, or avocado.
Make It Spicier
Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra Tajín.
Swap the Protein
Use grilled shrimp, steak, turkey, or rotisserie chicken.
Lighten It Up Further
Substitute part of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.
Why This Recipe Works
The sweet corn, creamy dressing, salty cotija cheese, and bright lime juice create the classic street corn flavor profile. Adding pasta and chicken transforms it into a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
The result is a creamy, refreshing pasta salad that’s equally at home at a summer cookout or packed for weekday lunches.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken in the refrigerator.
- Add a splash of lime juice or water if needed to refresh the texture.
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