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In today’s fast-paced world, meal prep has become an essential practice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious food. With busy schedules and the constant demand for convenience, finding meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare is key. One standout dish that perfectly combines flavor, nutrition, and convenience is the Spicy Chili Chicken Pasta Salad Jars. This vibrant recipe not only satisfies your craving for something tasty but also serves as a well-balanced option for on-the-go lunches or quick dinners. Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and a zesty kick, this pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Chili Chicken Pasta Salad Jars

Discover the ultimate meal prep solution with Spicy Chili Chicken Pasta Salad Jars! This vibrant dish combines whole-grain pasta, lean chicken, and crunchy vegetables, bringing flavor and nutrition together in a convenient jar. Perfect for busy lifestyles, each layer is designed to stay fresh and delicious. With a zesty dressing and customizable options, you can tailor it to your taste while enjoying a well-balanced meal on the go. Say goodbye to boring lunches and elevate your meal game!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini preferred)

1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup corn kernels (can use fresh or canned)

1 bell pepper (choose red, yellow, or orange), diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (your choice)

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Sliced jalapeños for added heat

Optional: Tortilla chips for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: If not done yet, cook the chicken breast until fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes of boiling), then let it cool before shredding. Season the shredded chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra flavor kick.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

      Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the dressing is smooth and well-blended.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together until well coated.

          Layer the Jars: Gather 4-6 mason jars or airtight containers. Start by adding a generous layer of the pasta salad into each jar. Next, carefully layer the diced avocado on top; this helps prevent browning. For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños on top of the avocado layer.

            Seal and Chill: Tightly seal each jar and place them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

              Serve and Enjoy: When it’s time to serve, either shake the jar to mix the contents or pour everything into a bowl for sharing. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for an added crunch and delightful texture!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings