Save to Pinterest Experience a burst of fresh flavor with this Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta. This dish features rotini pasta and tender shredded chicken tossed in a vibrant, creamy green sauce made with Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime. It is a high-protein, easy-to-make meal that is perfect for a refreshing weeknight dinner.
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This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize pre-cooked chicken while creating a meal that feels entirely fresh. The blend of cumin and chili powder adds a subtle warmth that complements the tangy lime juice and garlic perfectly.
Ingredients
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- Pasta and Chicken: 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta, 2 cups (about 10 oz / 280 g) cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or poached).
- Cilantro-Lime Yogurt Sauce: 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup (8 g) fresh cilantro leaves, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp lime zest, 2 cloves garlic, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Optional Garnishes: 1/4 cup (30 g) cotija or feta cheese, extra chopped cilantro, lime wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Step 3
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked rotini and shredded chicken with the cilantro-lime yogurt sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 5
- Serve immediately, garnished with cotija or feta cheese, extra cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience, or poach and shred chicken breasts at home for a fresh touch. Ensure the sauce is blended thoroughly to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency and a vibrant green color.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a different pasta shape, you can easily substitute penne or fusilli for the rotini. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a chopped jalapeño into the blender with the sauce ingredients.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is excellent when served immediately while warm, but it is also delicious when chilled and served as a cold pasta salad. Top with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime to enhance the zesty flavor profile.
Save to Pinterest With its simple preparation and bold, refreshing taste, this Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta is bound to become a staple in your kitchen for quick and flavorful dinners.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes wonderful served cold as a pasta salad. Simply toss gently before serving and add fresh cilantro and lime wedges for brightness.
- → What if I don't have a blender for the sauce?
You can finely mince the cilantro and garlic by hand, then whisk them together with the yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and spices in a bowl until well combined. The texture will be slightly chunkier but equally delicious.
- → How do I shred chicken breast easily?
Use a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store for convenience, or poach chicken breasts by simmering them in salted water for 15-18 minutes until cooked through. Once cooled, use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds.
- → Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
Plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang. You can substitute regular plain yogurt, but use slightly less liquid since it's thinner. Sour cream or crème fraîche also work well for a richer sauce.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. This pasta is excellent for meal prep and holds well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store components separately if possible—keep the sauce in one container and pasta with chicken in another—then combine when ready to eat for best texture.
- → What pasta shapes work best for this sauce?
Medium-sized pasta shapes work best because they hold the creamy sauce well. Rotini, penne, fusilli, and farfalle are all excellent choices. Avoid long thin pastas like spaghetti, which don't grip the sauce as effectively.
