Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food with a serious kick! You know how sometimes you crave something totally different, something that’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor? Well, my Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad is exactly that! It’s like a taco salad and a creamy pasta salad had a baby, and that baby was raised on a steady diet of deliciousness. If you love my Creamy Taco Pasta Salad, you are absolutely going to be obsessed with this one! The salty, cheesy crunch of the Doritos is the perfect complement to the creamy, savory chicken and pasta. This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, and honestly, it’s one of those dishes that just brings a smile to everyone’s face – even the picky eaters!
What is Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad?
Think of Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad as your favorite pasta salad all dressed up for a party. It’s essentially a cold pasta salad loaded with cooked chicken, crunchy Doritos, and a creamy, tangy dressing. The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. You’ve got the soft pasta, the tender chicken, the satisfying crunch of the Doritos, and the zesty dressing that ties it all together. The name, of course, comes from the star ingredient: those iconic nacho cheese Doritos! It’s a dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal when you’re craving something fun and flavorful. I made this one day when I was craving a taco salad but didn’t want to chop a ton of veggies, and it became an instant family favorite!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin?! What I love most about this Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad is how incredibly easy it is to throw together. This recipe really is a lifesaver when you’re short on time. It’s so much faster than making tacos! Seriously, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes, which is a win in my book. Plus, the flavor is just out of this world. The combination of the creamy dressing, savory chicken, and cheesy Doritos is simply irresistible. And let’s talk about cost-efficiency – you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already!
What makes it so great?
- Flavor Explosion:What is that cheesy, salty and tangy combination?
- Super Simple:What are some easy recipes to cook? I promise you won’t have any trouble, and it’s a great starter recipe for teens too.
- Budget FriendlyWhat are some good leftover chicken recipes?
- Totally CustomizWhat are some good substitutes for veggies? – the possibilities are endless!
What is a Doritos Chicken Salad? What are my favorite Doritos salads? What everyone loves? Who doesn’t love Doritos?
How do I make Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad?
Quick Overview
Making this Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad is as easy as 1-2-3! First, you’ll cook your pasta and chicken. Then, you’ll whip up the creamy, dreamy dressing. Finally, you’ll toss everything together with the Doritos and any other veggies you like. The key is to add the Doritos right before serving so they stay nice and crunchy. It’s seriously that simple. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step.
Ingredients
What is Pasta Salad?
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 bag (9.75 oz) Nacho Cheese Doritos, lightly crushed
- 1 cup mayonnaise (I prefer full-fat for the best flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust for desired consistency) (add more milk if desired)
- 1 packet Ranch dressing mix. 4 packets. 1 pack.
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional, but adds a nice bite)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste.
What are the steps in
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. I always add a pinch of salt to the boiling water – it really brings out the flavor of the pasta. Once it’s cooked, drain it well and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also help prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking your own chicken, you can bake it, poach it, or even grill it. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and seasoned to your liking. I sometimes like to add a little bit of taco seasoning to my chicken for an extra kick of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, and Ranch dressing mix until smooth. I always give it a taste and adjust the milk to get the perfect consistency – you want it to be creamy but not too thick. If you like a little bit of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of sugar or honey.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, red onion (if using), and cheddar cheese (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to crush the pasta.
Step 5: Add the Doritos
Right before serving, gently fold in the lightly crushed Doritos. It’s important to add them at the last minute to prevent them from getting soggy. I like to reserve a few crushed Doritos to sprinkle on top for garnish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional, but I find that it really enhances the taste of the salad. Serve chilled and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
This Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorite combinations:
- For a Picnic: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, like watermelon or berries, and some crispy coleslaw.
- For a BBQ:What are some of the best ways to serve corn on the cob, baked beans, and burgers?
- What is a quick lunch?What’s a good side to serve with tortilla chips and salsa?
My family always loves it when I serve this alongside some grilled chicken or steak. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or parties – it’s always a hit!
How do I make a Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad?
What are some of the best ways to make Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad?
- Pasta Perfection: Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is the way to go for the best texture.
- Dressing Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk to get the perfect creamy consistency. You want it to coat the pasta and chicken without being too runny.
- Dorito Timing: Add the Doritos right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. This is crucial for that satisfying crunch!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking. You can use different types of cheese, add other veggies like bell peppers or corn, or even swap out the chicken for cooked ham or turkey.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Ranch Dressing: I have tried making my own ranch from scratch, and while it tastes great, it doesn’t give the same authentic flavor as the packets. I recommend sticking to the packets.
I’ve learned over the years that the key to a great pasta salad is to let the flavors meld together in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. It really makes a difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad:
- Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the pasta and dressing may change. The Doritos definitely will not be crunchy!
- Doritos Storage: If you have leftovers, store them separately from the Doritos to prevent them from getting soggy. Add fresh Doritos when you’re ready to serve.
I usually make this salad the day before I plan to serve it. It gives the flavors time to develop, and it’s one less thing to worry about on the day of the party or picnic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad a try! It’s a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crunchy Doritos add a unique twist that everyone will love. If you’re looking for other delicious pasta salad recipes, be sure to check out my other creations on the blog. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your variations. Happy cooking!
Doritos Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken diced
- 3 cups cooked pasta cooled
- 1.5 cups Doritos crushed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and crushed Doritos to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the diced avocado and cherry tomatoes.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
