Name: Chili Crisp Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 oz shellbows (rotini, or cavatappi pasta); 2 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 cup sugar snap peas (thinly sliced); 1/2 seedless cucumber (diced); 1/2 red onion (diced); 1 red or orange bell pepper (diced); 4 green onions (sliced); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped (optional)); 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or sesame seeds (optional); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp chili crisp; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1 clove garlic (finely grated); 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated (optional)); 1/2 lime (juiced)

This chili crisp chicken pasta salad is the fun, flavor-packed twist on classic pasta salad you did not know you needed. Shellbow pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, sugar snap peas, cucumber and bell pepper get tossed in a creamy, spicy chili crisp dressing with soy, honey, sesame and lime. This chili crisp pasta salad is ready in about 20 minutes.

It is perfect for meal prep lunches, picnics and potlucks. If you love chili crisp, my Spicy Shrimp Peanut Noodles are calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Crisp Pasta Salad

Creamy, spicy and a little sweet all at once.
Rotisserie chicken shortcut means no extra cooking.
So much crunch from snap peas, cucumber, peppers and peanuts.
Meal prep friendly and great cold.

Ingredients for Chili Crisp Chicken Pasta Salad

The Pasta Salad

Shellbows, rotini or cavatappi pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, thinly sliced sugar snap peas, seedless cucumber, red onion, red or orange bell pepper, green onions and optional cilantro.

The Chili Crisp Dressing

Mayo, plain Greek yogurt, chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, grated garlic, optional fresh ginger and lime juice.

The Toppings

Chopped peanuts or sesame seeds, extra chili crisp and lime.

Swap note: For gluten free, use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce, and check your chili crisp label. Skip the peanuts or use sesame seeds for a nut-free version.

How to Make Chili Crisp Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cool.

Step 2: Whisk the dressing

Whisk the mayo, Greek yogurt, chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and lime juice until smooth.

Step 3: Combine

Add the cooled pasta, chicken, snap peas, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, green onions and cilantro to a large bowl.

Step 4: Toss and chill

Pour the dressing over the top and toss until coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors come together.

Step 5: Top and serve

Finish with extra chili crisp, peanuts, sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Rinse the pasta. Cool pasta keeps the dressing creamy and stops it from absorbing too fast.
Save some dressing. The pasta soaks it up as it sits, so a little extra freshens it before serving.
Adjust the heat. Start with less chili crisp and add more to taste.
Slice the snap peas thin so you get crunch in every bite.

Make It Your Own

Shrimp: Swap the chicken for cooked, chilled shrimp.
Noodle salad: Use soba or rice noodles instead of pasta.
Veggie: Skip the chicken and add edamame for protein.
Extra crunch: Add shredded cabbage or carrots.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Make the pasta salad up to 3 days ahead. Keep a little extra dressing or chili crisp on the side to refresh it before serving.

What to Serve With Chili Crisp Pasta Salad

This chili crisp pasta salad is a full meal on its own, but it is great alongside grilled chicken, Cajun Honey Butter Chicken Sliders with Tangy Coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad at a cookout.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Stir in a spoonful of mayo, a little lime or extra chili crisp to refresh it. Do not freeze.

What People Ask About Chili Crisp Pasta Salad

What is chili crisp?

Chili crisp is a crunchy, savory chili oil made with fried chiles, garlic and shallots. It adds heat, texture and umami.

How spicy is chili crisp pasta salad?

It has a medium kick that is balanced by the creamy dressing and honey. Use less chili crisp for mild.

Can I make chili crisp pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes. It keeps up to 3 days in the fridge and tastes even better after the flavors meld.

What pasta is best for pasta salad?

Shapes with nooks like shellbows, rotini and cavatappi hold the dressing best.