Looking for a refreshing and satisfying dish? This Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing. It’s ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick lunch. Bursting with flavor and easy to make, this recipe will become your go-to for any occasion!
Jump to RecipeStep-by-Step Instructions
After boiling your pasta to perfection, it’s time to prepare the cooked ingredients for your salad. Start by cooking the chicken breasts, seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes—this helps lock in the juices—before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Meanwhile, fry the bacon until it’s wonderfully crispy, then crumble it into small bits to mix into your salad.
Now, let’s prepare the dressing! You can even make this in advance to save time during prep. Simply whisk all the ingredients together until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer any additional seasonings, this is the perfect moment to add them in.
Now, it’s time to assemble! Add your mix-ins, pasta, and dressing together, then toss everything until well combined. Once it’s all mixed up, you’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Storage
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days. However, keep in mind that spinach mixed with the dressing may become slightly soggy, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Low-Calorie Version: Swap mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for texture.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Course: Chicken6
servings15
minutes10
minutesThis Chicken Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta, all tossed in a flavorful dressing. It’s a simple yet delicious meal, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy the refreshing combination of textures and tastes in every bite!
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
3 cups cooked pasta (fusilli, penne, or bowtie)
2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper (any color), diced - For the Dressing:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Boil the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, then drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
- Combine chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a large bowl.
- Whisk all the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine the salad with the dressing, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad becomes even more flavorful after being chilled for a few hours.
2. How long does Chicken Pasta Salad stay fresh in the fridge?
You can keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this recipe.
