This Chicken Pasta Salad Is Loaded With Fresh Ingredients
The worst part about a pasta salad with mushy noodles is that it isn’t tasty. Cooking pasta (which is difficult than it appears!) and getting your fusilli exactly al dente are two important skills to learn. Have you finished it yet? Please share your experience in the comments section below. Yields:8servings Preparation time: 0 hours and 10 minutes Time allotted: 0 hours 30mins In the case of salad 1 pound fusilli pasta2 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 pound fusilli pasta (about 1 pound) 1 teaspoon of garlic powder Kosher salt is a kind of salt that is kosher.
peppercorns that have been freshly ground
- Fusilli should be cooked al dente in a big pot of salted boiling water according to package guidelines, but not too long. Drain the water and transfer it to a large mixing basin. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper are used to season the chicken breasts. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Cook the chicken for 8 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Allow for 10 minutes of resting time before cutting into 1″ pieces. In the meantime, prepare the dressing: Pour all of the ingredients into a medium-sized mixing basin. Whisk until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Toss together all of the additional ingredients in the large mixing basin with the pasta. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated before serving.
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Chicken Pasta Salad
There’s plenty of creamy dressing in this big batch chicken pasta salad, which has been lightened up by using a combination of sour cream and mayonnaise to ensure it’s not overly oily. Make it today and you’ll be able to enjoy it for days! Are you looking for a no-mayo version? In its place, make a Creamy Yogurt Dressing.
About this Chicken Pasta Salad
Served with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce and an abundance of other ingredients, this chicken pasta salad is a classic comfort food. If you want to be really fancy, you may add things like carrots, celery, capsicum (bell peppers), green onion, bacon, cheese, and even avocado. What I most enjoy about it is that it is pleasant and “wet.” In other words, there’s a lot of dressing, but you won’t feel bloated after devouring a large bowl of this since the dressing is created with a 50/50 blend of mayonnaise and sour cream.
What goes in the Chicken Pasta Salad Creamy Dressing
Here’s what you’ll need to make the lighter-than-usual but still creamy salad dressing:
- Using whole egg mayonnaise will provide the most flavorful result. It has a smoother and fuller flavor than mayonnaise made without whole eggs. Hellman’s and S W are two of my favorite companies. Instead of using whole-egg mayonnaise, reduce the amount of cider vinegar used somewhat
- Otherwise, the dressing tastes a little vinegary (in my opinion)
- As previously said, sour cream is used to reduce the amount of mayonnaise used in a dressing while still producing a deliciously creamy dressing
- Flavorings such as dijon mustard and garlic powder are used. Everybody knows I’m a sad fan of Dijon mustard
- For the sharpness, I used cider vinegar
- And for the sweetness, I used sugar just a little, for balance and since it’s the old-fashioned approach.
What goes in my Chicken Pasta Salad
In addition, this is what I used to make this pasta salad:
- Cooked chicken is available, or you may poach your own. Then shred or finely cut the vegetables into baton shapes (see figure below). The flavor is more pronounced with the pasta and it is easier to consume than lumpy chunks Macaroni (also known as elbow pasta) – The original pasta salad form, which dates back to the 16th century. However, you may use any short pasta you desire, such as penne, ziti, bow ties, spirals, and so on. Capsicum/bell pepper– for wonderful, crisp tiny flecks of red throughout
- Green onion– for freshness and lovely pieces of green color
- Carrot and celery– standard creamy pasta salad vegetable add-ins. Avocado–Optional. I picked “yes,” but they were unfortunately far too hard to be of any use. Because of this, they aren’t included in the completed dish photographs or the recipe video. For the record, I’ve always loved shredded cheese and will continue to do so
- Also bacon for its delicious tiny flashes of salty pleasure. Ham also works exceptionally well (with the added pleasure of not having to prepare it)
How to make Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
It’s quite pleasant and straightforward:
- Pasta – Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. When making pasta salads, do not skip the salt in the water
- It makes a significant difference. Dressing– Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and let aside for 10 minutes or more to allow the flavors to blend
- Sauté the bacon until it’s brown and crisp, then drain it on paper towels Toss–Toss everything together with a lot of force. Devour
No-mayonnaise creamy dressing option
As a bonus, I would be negligent if I did not suggest some fantastic no-mayo creamy dressing alternatives! For those of you who dislike mayonnaise (I appear to have an unusually high number of these people in my life), or just to make a lower-fat version of it, try aCreamy Yogurt Dressinginstead. You may use either the Yogurt Ranch or the Yogurt Potato Salad Dressing for your pasta salad; both are delicious.
Serve at room temperature
Not to mention some fantastic no-mayo creamy dressing alternatives that I would be negligent not to mention! Whether you have mayo haters in your life (I seem to have an unusually high number of them), or you’re looking for a lower-fat option, aCreamy Yogurt Dressingis a good choice. If you’re making pasta salad, either the Yogurt Ranch Dressing or the Yogurt Potato Salad Dressing will do the trick.
Watch how to make it
Subscribe to my email and follow me on social media platforms such as Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram to stay up to speed on the newest news. Servings10–12Hover over the image to see the scaleRecipe video above. There’s plenty of creamy dressing in this big batch chicken pasta salad, which has been lightened up by using a combination of sour cream and mayonnaise to ensure it’s not overly oily. Make it today and you’ll be able to enjoy it for days! Are you looking for a no-mayo version? Instead, use aCreamy Yogurt Dressing to dress your salad.
- 500g / 1 lb macaroni / elbow pasta (or other pasta of choice)
- 1 tablespoon salt (to boil pasta)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (to season pasta).
Pasta Salad:
- A cup of cooked chicken, shredded or coarsely chopped (Note 1)
- 150g / 5 oz bacon, diced celery stalks, thinly cut
- 2 celery leaves, thinly sliced red pepper / bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 green onions, neatly sliced
- 1 red pepper / bell pepper, finely diced The ingredients are as follows: 2 medium carrots (shredded using a regular box grater)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, delicious, Colby)
- 2 small/medium avocados (cut into bite size pieces) (optional)
DRESSING:
- Hellmann’s, Finest Foods, S W, or other whole egg mayonnaise are the best options
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat is fine, but reduced fat is also OK)
- 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package guidelines after adding salt. Drain well and set aside to cool. Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients. Set aside at least 10 minutes. Place bacon in a cold nonstick pan and cook until crispy (Note X). Turn the heat up to medium high and fry the bacon until it is golden brown. Discard after draining on paper towels. Place the cooked pasta in a large mixing bowl with the remaining ingredients for the Pasta Salad, saving some bacon for decoration. Pour over the Dressing and mix thoroughly
- Allow for a 20-minute resting period. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the remaining bacon pieces. Serve
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator for 3 – 4 days. It is preferable to allow the food to get to room temperature before serving.
1. Cooked chicken– I simply use rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. If you want to poach your own chicken, use this easy chicken poaching procedure. 2. Cooking bacon in a cold skillet causes the bacon fat to melt as the skillet heats up, resulting in the need for no additional oil to cook the bacon. 3. Do not use mayonnaise dressing; instead, use aCreamy Yogurt Dressing. The Yogurt Ranch and Yogurt Potato Salad dressings are two of my favorite dressings for pasta salad. 4. Storage– It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
5.
Life of Dozer
Bringing back the food-catching chest hair from today’s shot, here’s some chicken. Take a look at him, licking his licks in anticipation of a treat, entirely oblivious to the nibble that has been entangled in the hairs on his chest! When it comes to cooking, I think that you can create delicious meals using ordinary products, even if you are short on time and money. All you have to do is cook shrewdly and be inventive!
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Recipe for a Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad that is packed with flavor, protein, and vegetables! This delicious chicken pasta salad is topped with tomatoes, avocado, and fresh basil for a colorful presentation. For those seeking for a filling lunch or potluck food, this chunkychicken pasta saladwill be one of the most delicious possibilities in your arsenal of ingredients. Enjoy! Prepare this dish for supper! Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com
Ingredients list for the Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- A delicious chicken pasta salad recipe that is high in taste, protein, and vegetables! Fresh basil, tomatoes, avocado, and other fresh ingredients make up this delicious chicken pasta salad. If you’re seeking for a nutritious salad for lunch or dish ideas for a potluck, this chunky chicken pasta saladwill be one of the greatest alternatives in your arsenal. Enjoy! Make it for supper tonight! Eatwell101.com provided the image for this piece.
- A half cup white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com
How To Make This Simple Pasta Salad
This recipe for Thicken Pasta Salad is quite simple to prepare. It takes less than 20 minutes to complete from beginning to end. The fact that you can store this pasta salad in the refrigerator for up to three days is a bonus. In order to prepare the pasta salad, we used rotisserie chicken, but you can also roast or grill chicken breasts on your own or use whatever leftover chicken you have in your refrigerator. Simply combine all of the ingredients in a large salad bowl and whisk together to produce a vinaigrette-style dressing for serving.
What’s the Best Pasta for the Chicken Pasta Salad?
Classic rotini pasta salad is our favorite since rotini holds the dressing well, but any robust pasta can suffice as well! Stay away from spaghetti and lengthy pasta shapes like tagliatelle. Alternate pasta shapes for this dish include rotini, bow tie, penne, macaroni, and penne fritters. Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com
The Dressing for the Pasta Salad
The dressing for this pasta salad recipe is one of the most crucial components of the dish. With the exception of salt and pepper, our pasta salad dressing has only five ingredients. The dressing for the pasta salad is made by whisking white wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a touch of salt and pepper together in a mixing bowl. Although this dressing is straightforward, the taste it produces when combined with pasta, chicken, tomato, avocado, and other ingredients is incredible!
Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com
Directions
1.To prepare this delicious and nutritious chicken pasta salad, follow these steps: Combine the salad ingredients, including the shredded chicken, avocado, onion, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and basil, in a large mixing bowl. 2.In a container, add the dressing components (vinegar, Italian seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper) and shake well to blend. 3.Drizzle the dressing over the chicken pasta salad and toss to combine. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are well-combined. Serve the chicken pasta salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate until needed.
Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com
Tips for the chicken pasta salad
Thickened pasta salad is nutritious, excellent for hectic nights, and creates a large enough dish to serve as lunches for the next day at the office or at school.
Because there is no mayo in this recipe, it is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and parties.
- Additional ingredients that might go nicely with this salad are sliced cucumber, crispy bacon, corn, olives, black beans, and so on.
- And To prevent the avocado from turning brown, coat it with either lemon juice or lime juice before storing it. It will have antioxidant properties
- The fact that it’s a cold chicken pasta salad makes it ideal for summer picnics and potlucks. You may prepare the chicken pasta salad up to a day ahead of time, but wait to add the avocado and tomato until just before serving to ensure that the ingredients are as fresh as possible.
Can I grill chicken instead of using rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you may grill chicken breasts for this salad, of course. Grilling or pan-searing chicken breasts over medium-low heat will prevent the chicken from burning on the outside while remaining uncooked on the inside. Instead of fresh chicken, we like to use a bag of frozen grilled organic chicken breasts, which we heat up in a skillet and then use for the salad when fresh chicken is unavailable.
How to Store the Chicken Pasta Salad?
If you store it in an airtight container in the fridge, you may enjoy this chicken pasta salad for up to 3 days. You shouldn’t store it for much longer than that since the avocado will eventually turn brown. It’s possible that you’ll have to toss the remaining chicken pasta salad to redistribute the dressing before serving it. If you wish to prepare it ahead of time, simply skip the avocados; you’ll add them right before you serve it.
What other readers say about this chicken pasta salad
“This was really delicious and the perfect meal. Added black olives, cucumber, and matchstick carrots to the original recipe. My mistake was that I forgot to include the basil, and it turned out OK without it.” — Maureen & Co. “I just finished making this chicken pasta salad for supper. It’s something I’ll certainly cook again. This is the perfect summer dress. “I threw in some charred corn and served the dressing on the side with croutons.” – Nancy et al. et al. et al. et al. et al. “Delicious!
- “I’m definitely going to make it again!” ‘Laura’ is a fictional character created by author Laura It was a hit with the boys, who each ate three plates.
- In the end, I added a little more lemon juice and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
- – Jamie & Associates, Inc.
- & Associates, Inc.
- & Associates, Inc.
More chicken salad recipes
- Recipes for healthy avocado chicken salad include: blackened chicken and avocado salad, pesto chicken pasta salad with avocado and tomato dressing, and pesto chicken pasta salad with avocado and tomato dressing. Recipe for Roasted Chicken with Parmesan Kale Salad
Photograph courtesy of Eatwell101.com Play it again if you want a delicious diversion. To uncover something wonderful, you must arrange these tiles correctly.
Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Selection of Recipe Groups: 22nd of March, 2014 It was fantastic! Everything about this salad was a hit with us. I only made one substitution: I used micro rotini pasta and Roma tomatoes because I happened to have them on hand. I combined all of the ingredients and let them to mingle for around 30 minutes before serving. Don’t be tempted to leave out the avocado since it adds a lot of flavor and texture to this salad. We believed that a small amount of onion would enhance the flavor of this salad.
Thank you, Lane J, for sharing this recipe; it is one that will be used again and again.
Most helpful critical review
Although it sounded fantastic, I was not a fan. Maybe it’s the combination of mayonnaise and Italian salad dressing? It’s a little too bland for my liking. 338 people have given their opinions.
- Five-star ratings: 234
- Four-star ratings: 85
- Three-star ratings: 16, two-star ratings: 2, and one-star ratings: 1.
Selection of Recipe Groups: 22nd of March, 2014 It was fantastic! Everything about this salad was a hit with us. I only made one substitution: I used micro rotini pasta and Roma tomatoes because I happened to have them on hand. I combined all of the ingredients and let them to mingle for around 30 minutes before serving. Don’t be tempted to leave out the avocado since it adds a lot of flavor and texture to this salad. We believed that a small amount of onion would enhance the flavor of this salad.
Thank you, Lane J, for sharing this recipe; it is one that will be used again and again.
Instead of using rotisserie chicken, I used a chicken breast that I had leftover from grilling and needed to use up.
Despite the fact that I only had six pieces of bacon, it was more than enough for us, and the avocado was a welcome addition.
Recipe Group Selection for the 22nd of March 2014 – During the humid summer months, I’m usually on the lookout for a full and enjoyable one-dish lunch that is not only pleasing to the sight but also to the taste sensations.
- This recipe fits the bill well.
- The tastes work nicely together without being in competition with one another, and the variety of textures adds to the overall complexity of the dish.
- Continue readingAdvertisement Created for the Recipe Group.
- The combination of mayonnaise and Italian dressing gave it a ranch-like flavor.
- I used some Monteray Jack cheese chunks and tri-color rotini for this dish.
- Thank you very much for the recipe!
- I added 5 green onions, finely diced, and 1 bunch cilantro to the salad.
The meal was a huge hit with the six adults that attended (4 of whom are my children/girlfriends).
Thank you for a fantastic idea to make use of chicken!
I added some shredded romaine lettuce to it, and I think I’ll add some thinly sliced red onion next time I make it.
And because I happened to have roma tomatoes and monterey cheese on hand, that’s what I used in this recipe.
Continue readingAdvertisement I didn’t make a single modification.
It was fantastic!
This salad was a huge hit with us!
I used all of the other ingredients, but I kind of eyeballed the amounts according on how they tasted.
a sure keeper in the making YUM!
I half the recipe, and we got about four servings out of it (2 dinner 2 lunch).
Because much of the dressing was absorbed by the spaghetti, I served the remaining dressing alongside the entrée.
My only substitutions were homemade dressing (vegan mayo and sharp cheddar), and they were both delicious.
Although it sounded fantastic, I was not a fan.
Maybe it’s the combination of mayonnaise and Italian salad dressing?
Chicken Pasta Salad
This Chicken and Veggie Pasta Salad is rich with chicken and vegetables, and it’s bursting with flavor. A simple weekday supper dish to feed your family, which is also great for taking to gatherings and picnics, as well as for meal preparing purposes. This dish is a family favorite since it is full of flavor and really tasty. Easy to prepare classic chicken pasta salad that is sure to please everyone in the family. It’s a well-balanced dinner that will leave you full and happy throughout the day.
A simple pasta salad dressing is tossed with the salad and served immediately.
In addition to being a family favorite, this nutritious and simple pasta salad dish is also ideal for individuals who enjoy meal prepping.
HOW TO MAKE PASTA SALAD
- Using a whisk, mix all of the dressing ingredients in a small bowl until thoroughly blended. Remove from consideration
- Cook the Pasta:While you’re waiting for the pasta to cook, boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package guidelines. Drain the pasta, rinse it, and move it to a big mixing basin. Remove from consideration
- Prepare the chicken while the pasta is cooking: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts crosswise into long (0.5-inch thick) strips and set them.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil with the thyme, oregano, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and stir until combined. Stir in the chicken pieces until they are well coated. Cooking the Chicken consists of the following steps: Using a large nonstick skillet, cook the ingredients over medium heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the sides, in a single layer. Putting Together the Pasta Bowl: Transfer the chicken, along with any collected juices, to a large mixing bowl or serving platter. Combine the peppers and onions, cherry tomatoes, olives, parmesan, and arugula in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to mix. Season with salt and pepper and serve: Depending on your preference, season with additional salt and pepper if necessary
- Serve warm or chilly
PASTA SALAD DRESSING
Making the dressing for this easy homemade chicken pasta salad is a straightforward process. Toss all of the ingredients together in a large mixing basin until fully combined before pouring over the salad. 1 cup extra virgin olive oil, preferably cold pressed 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar 1 tsphoney tsphoney tsphoney 1garlic clove, crushed or minced 1garlic clove, minced a pinch of red pepper flakes crushed Koshersalt and freshly ground black pepper are used in this recipe.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We may not have been able to provide you with the information you were looking for, but please feel free to leave a note in the comments box below with any questions you may have.
How long does pasta salad last
When stored in a firmly sealed container in the refrigerator, a vegetarian spaghetti salad will keep for 4-5 days. For safety reasons, if your pasta salad contains any type of protein such as chicken or fish, such as this chicken pasta salad, it should be consumed within 2-3 days to be on the safe side. Store in an airtight container to avoid contamination.
Can you freeze pasta salad
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, a vegetarian spaghetti salad will last 4-5 days. For safety reasons, if your pasta salad contains any type of protein such as chicken or fish, such as this chicken pasta salad, it should be consumed within 2-3 days. Ensure that the container is airtight.
What to put in pasta salad
With your pasta salad, you may serve it with a choice of sautéed or grilled vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, maize, and Brussels sprouts are all good choices. Pasta salads are also delicious when topped with additional protein sources such as chicken, fish, shrimp, tofu, and so on. Other possible additions to your pasta salad include the following:
- Capers, artichoke hearts, and olives
- Cheeses such as feta
- Vegetables such as peppers, celery, and carrots
Do you cool down the pasta for pasta salad
There are certain pasta salads that are intended to be served cold. In such scenario, you may prepare the pasta a couple of hours ahead of time and allow it to cool before adding the remaining ingredients. You may serve this simple chicken pasta recipe either warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Tips to consider while making this chicken pasta salad
- Using gluten-free pasta in place of whole grain or white spaghetti will allow you to make this dish gluten-free. By eliminating the chicken, you may keep the meal vegetarian. Instead of arugula, you may use some finely chopped spinach. Increase the amount of fresh herbs used, such as oregano or thyme.
This chicken pasta salad dish is one of our favorites, and we hope you will enjoy it as well.
Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family on social media.
Other Easy Pasta Salads to check out:
- Greek Pasta Salad
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
- Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
- Vegetarian Pasta Salad
- Greek Pasta Salad
Remember to sign up for myNEWSLETTER, which is completely free, to have recipes like this Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe delivered straight to your email every week! In the event that you attempt a dish and enjoy it, please tag us on Instagram with the hashtag healthyfitnessmealsonINSTAGRAM for a chance to be featured! For all of our most recent blog entries and recipes, be sure to follow Healthy Fitness Meals onFACEBOOK|INSTAGRAM|PINTEREST|TWITTER.
- 112 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts pasta (penne or fusilli) 12 oz. dry Make use of whole grain pasta or gluten-free pasta. 2-3TbspChopped Fresh Thyme
- 2TbspFresh Chopped Oreganoor dried
- 2CupsHalved Cherry Tomatoes
- 2-3TbspChopped Fresh Thyme
- 2-3TbspFresh Chopped Oreganoor dried
- 2-3TbspFresh 15CupGround Parmesan Cheese
- 3CupsPacked Arugularoughly chopped
- 1Yellow Bell Pepperseeds removed
- 12CupGreen Olivessliced in half
- 1mediumRed Onionthickly sliced
- 15CupGround Parmesan Cheese
- 1 medium Red Onionthickly sliced
Dressing
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, smashed or minced
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- To make the dressing, put all of the ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until thoroughly incorporated. Set aside
- In the meantime, prepare the pasta in a saucepan of boiling salted water according to the package recommendations, stirring occasionally. Drain the pasta, rinse it with cold water, and move it to a large mixing dish to combine. Remove from consideration
- While the pasta is cooking, get the chicken to the desired doneness. Cut the chicken breasts crosswise into long (0.5-inch thick) strips and set them. Prepare the dressing by combining 1 tablespoon olive oil with the thyme, oregano, garlic, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir in the chicken pieces until they are well coated. Using a large nonstick skillet, cook the ingredients over medium heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the sides, in a single layer. Transfer the chicken, along with any collected juices, to a large mixing bowl or serving platter. Combine the pepper and onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, parmesan, and arugula in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to mix. Depending on your preference, season with additional salt and pepper if necessary
- Serve warm or chilly
Substitutes:
- Pasta of any form or variety is acceptable. Make use of whole grain or whole wheat products. You may also use lentil pasta in this recipe. Arugula is substituted with spinach. Any olives at all
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup. Any tomatoes, chopped into tiny pieces
Storage: Place any leftovers in a jar and keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to dine, reheat the dish in the microwave. You have the option of freezing for up to three months. It is important to note that the nutritional information provided has been obtained using a nutrition facts calculator. It is an approximate estimate that might differ significantly depending on the items utilized. calorie count 468kcal|carbohydrate count 45g|protein count 27g|fat count 20g|saturated fat 4g|cholesterol count 53mg|sodium count 358mg|potassium count 543mg|fiber count 7g|sugar count 5g|vitamin A 774IU|vitamin C 56mg|calcium count 139mg|iron count 2 mg calorie count 468kcal|carbohydrate count 45g|
Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that is full of texture and color! While our favorite Italian pasta salad recipe is typically served as a side dish, this substantial dish may easily be served as a whole dinner! This dish, which is loaded with chicken, pasta, bacon, and vegetables, is tossed in a thick ranch mayo dressing and serves as the perfect supper for a crowd. If you have any leftover baked chicken breasts (or rotisserie or leftover roast chicken), you can make this simple pasta salad to use them all up!
What Goes in Pasta Salad
Cold pasta salad may be made with as many or as few ingredients as the cook like, and it is quite versatile. A classic rendition will always begin with a spaghetti foundation, followed by meat, vegetables, and cheese, among other ingredients.
- Pasta: tri-color penne or rotini pasta are recommended, but any medium-sized pasta would suffice. Cooked chicken breasts, crumbled bacon, and other meats instead, use leftover turkey or ham Vegetables: use a range of colors and textures to create a visually appealing and tasty pasta salad. Culinary flavors may be boosted by using ingredients such as cheese, onions, fresh herbs, and even sliced olives (black or green).
To make this dish, you may use ordinary spaghetti, switch cheeses according to your desire, and include any ingredients you have on hand. Consider using diced red, yellow, and orange bell pepper for a flavorful and crunchy addition to your meal.
Chicken Pasta Salad Dressing
For the greatest pasta salad dressing, I make a delicious and simple ranch type dressing that is both tasty and simple. When you create chicken pasta salad with mayonnaise, it becomes rich and creamy. The use of fresh herbs enhances the flavor of the dish!
- Mayonnaise, sour cream, and milk are all creamy ingredients. To add flavor, use a packet of ranch dressing mix (or make your own ranch seasoning) and fresh herbs.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad
Following the preparation of the vegetables and slicing of the cheeses, this chicken ranch pasta salad comes together in no time. Simply follow the instructions outlined below:
- Drain and rinse the pasta after it has been cooked al dente. In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients and stir in the dressing
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Freshly sliced green onion and more bacon should be sprinkled on top just before serving.
Can You Freeze It?
Because of the high fat content of the chicken bacon ranch pasta salad, it is not recommended for freezing. A disproportionate number of the elements just do not hold up well. Mayonnaise splits, sour cream becomes gritty and runny, and fresh tomatoes turn to disgusting mush when exposed to heat. But don’t be concerned.
Everyone like chicken pasta salad, so you won’t have to worry about having any leftovers! Unlike other cold pasta salad recipes, this one lasts for approximately three days in the refrigerator. If you need to prepare it in advance, allow enough time for preparation and storage.
Popular Pasta Salads
- Pasta Salad with Dill and Pickles– a reader favorite
- The classic summer pasta salad, the Italian Pasta Salad. Pesto Pasta Salad – a vibrant and tasty dish. Bow Tie Pasta Salad is done in 20 minutes and tastes delicious. Salad de Orzo méditerranéenne– bursting with taste
- Easy Greek Pasta Salad with a Homemade Dressing prepared with only four ingredients
Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Preparation time: 10 minutes Approximately 10 minutes of cooking time Time allotted: 20 minutes Servings8 This pasta salad is bursting at the seams with flavor and vibrancy! This delectable side dish is made out of rotini pasta, chopped chicken, and a homemade ranch dressing.
- Cooked and cooled tri-color rotini pasta
- 2 cups schicken cooked and diced
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup grape tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cheddar cheese crumbled
- 3 green onions sliced, optional fresh parsley and dill for garnish
- 12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
Dressing
- Mix together 2/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/12 cup sour cream, 1 package ranch dressing mix, and 1/3 cup milk.
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- In a small dish, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined
- Put aside. In a large mixing basin, combine the remaining ingredients. Toss with the dressing and place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately after preparation.
Calories:447, The following are the nutritional values: carbohydrates: 34g, protein: 12g, fat: 29 g, saturated fat: 9 grams Nutritional Information: Cholesterol: 42 mg, Sodium: 345 mg, Potassium: 233 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 3 g, Vitamin A: 465 IU, Vitamin C: 3.5 mg, Calcium: 145 mg, Iron: 0.9 mg (The nutritional information supplied is an estimate, and it will vary depending on the cooking technique and the brands of components used).
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Chicken Pasta Salad
Using leftover chicken or canned chicken, this simple and delicious Chicken Pasta Salad can be prepared in minutes and served as a quick and easy supper or side dish. It’s also a fantastic pasta salad to bring to picnics and potlucks because of its simplicity. If you’re looking for a light and refreshing meal, this cold chicken pasta salad with mayonnaise is a great choice. It’s quick and easy to create and only requires a few ingredients. You may easily prepare it the night before you need it, and if you need to bring it to a barbecue or picnic, place the pasta salad in a cooler filled with ice before transporting it.
In addition to the chicken, celery, onions, and parsley, what other items would you use in this macaroni salad?
It is a salad that may be used in a variety of ways.
While it is entirely up to you and your preferences in terms of flavor and how full you would like it to be,
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad
Using leftover chicken or canned chicken, this simple and delicious Chicken Pasta Salad can be prepared in minutes and served as a supper or side dish. It’s also a fantastic pasta salad to bring to picnics and potlucks with you. It’s easy to create this cold chicken pasta salad with mayo if you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that’s quick and easy to put together. You may easily prepare it the night before you need it, and if you need to bring it to a barbecue or picnic, simply place the pasta salad in a cooler filled with ice before transporting it.
Aside from the chicken, celery, onions, and parsley, what additional items would you use in this macaroni salad?
There are many different ways to prepare this salad, making it quite adaptable. The truth is that this chicken salad may be made with a variety of various components. However, how full you want it to be is all up to you and your particular preferences.
What to serve with this Chicken Pasta Salad?
With this pasta salad, you could serve nearly anything you wanted. If you want to serve buttered french bread, crackers, a Carrot Apple Ambrosia Salad, or even barbecue ribs and any form of grilled meat, you could do it!
How long will the Chicken Pasta Salad keep?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad will survive for at least 3-4 days. Remember to use a clean spoon each time you serve the spaghetti to avoid the pasta being contaminated. Make sure not to let the pasta salad lying on the counter for too long to avoid it spoiling. This spaghetti dish is ideal for utilizing leftover chicken from holiday dinners, Mother’s Day lunches, summer barbeques, and Fourth of July cookouts, among other occasions.
More recipes for you
- Pasta dishes include Cajun Chicken & Sausage Pasta, Cheesy Taco Penne Ziti, Cheesy Rigatoni Bake, Baked Spaghetti, Southern Style Green Beans, and Creamy Coleslaw, among others
- See more recipes here.
Description
Using leftover chicken or canned chicken, this simple and delicious Chicken Pasta Salad can be prepared in minutes and served as a quick and easy supper or side dish. Scale
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (canned chicken can be used)
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 8 ozelbow macaroni that have been cooked according to package directions
- Mayonnaise
- 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 big onion, diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked chicken should be shredded or diced. Remove from consideration
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Under cool running water, drain and rinse the pasta. In a large mixing bowl, add the pasta, chicken, mayonnaise, vegetables, salt, and pepper
- Toss to blend. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight after covering with plastic wrap. Enjoy while it’s still cold
Notes
If you choose, you can add grapes or peas to the pasta salad before serving.
- Cooking method: cooktop
- Cuisine: American
- Category: dinner
- Cooking method: stovetop
The following are some keywords to remember: chicken salad, pasta salad, macaroni, side dish, supper, leftovers
PIN ME:
It is possible that this content contains affiliate links. You can read more about my disclosure policy here. This Chicken Pasta Saladis the ideal dish for a fast meal or to serve as a side dish at a picnic or barbecue. This spaghetti dish is made much better with the addition of chicken, vegetables, and a homemade dressing. To find more cold pasta dishes, check out our delectable tri-color pasta salad and pesto pasta salad, both of which you will love. Contents of the Table of Contents
- Recipe for the Best Chicken Pasta Salad
- Ingredients you’ll need
- Chicken Pasta Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Making the Perfect Pasta Salad: Some Tips and Tricks I’m not sure what to serve with this. How to Store Pasta Salad with Chicken
- Is it possible to prepare it ahead of time? More delicious salad recipes for you to try
- Instructions for the entire recipe
The Best Chicken Pasta Salad
This Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe to serve during the warmer months. It’s cooked with al dente rotini pasta, grilled chicken breast, and a variety of veggies and is served cold. The dressing is created from scratch and is really tasty. This recipe pulls together fast and effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for weekday dinners, a quick lunch alternative, or a picnic lunch. Because this recipe is so adaptable, you may use any veggies and meats you have on hand in addition to or instead of those listed.
What you’ll need
- Pasta—I used rotinipasta in three different colors. Chicken breasts that have been boneless and skinless
- Seasonings: olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
- A pinch of kosher salt. Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado are examples of vegetables. To make the dressing, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, water, lemon juice, Italian spices, and salt in a mixing bowl
- Set aside.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad
- Prepare the chicken by chopping and seasoning it. Chicken breasts are sliced into thin cutlets, which are then seasoned with Italian seasoning on both sides, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Prepare the chicken. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. After that, grill the chicken on both sides until it is cooked through and no longer pink. Check the temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest portion of the meat
- Then set it aside to rest. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes, covered, after it has been cooked. After that, cut it into bite-sized pieces
- And
- Prepare the pasta. The rotini should be cooked according to the package guidelines at this point. Immediately after it’s finished, drain it and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to prevent it from overcooking. Prepare the veggies by chopping them. Then cut the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and onion into thin slices. Cut the avocado into tiny pieces before serving. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and veggies in a large mixing bowl
- Set aside while you make the dressing. Add the olive oil, vinegar, honey, lemon juice, water, Italian spices, and salt to a large measuring cup and whisk to combine. Using a whisk, combine
- Make a dressing for the salad. Toss the chicken pasta salad with the dressing until everything is well-combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips for making the perfect pasta salad
- Prevent pasta from becoming overcooked by cooking it to al dente and then rinsing it well with cold water after draining the pasta. In order for the pasta not to get mushy and broken when combined with the other ingredients, it is necessary to halt the cooking process. Cook the chicken to completion-The best way to guarantee that the chicken is properly done is to place a meat thermometer into the thickest section of the flesh. The temperature should be at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. When cutting the chicken and veggies, try to keep them all around the same size to ensure that the salad is uniform in color and texture. You won’t get an overpowering taste of any one ingredient, but you will get a little bit of everything when you bite into it this manner. Try some various varieties with your favorite ingredients- Because this is a highly adaptable salad, you can customize it by adding additional veggies, such as asparagus, peppers, and olives, cheese, or other proteins, such as fish, shrimp, or tofu, to make it exactly what you’re craving.
What to Serve with this
This Chicken Pasta Salad may be served as-is for any meal of the day or night. In contrast, if you wish to serve it alongside another food, here are some suggestions:
- To serve with sandwiches, such as this Classic BLT Sandwich or this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Sandwich, this is a terrific side dish to go with sandwiches. It will go well with grilled meats such as steak, hamburgers, hot dogs, and ribs, if you’re taking it to a BBQ or picnic. Make a Cast Iron Ribeye Steakkor to accompany it. BBQ Chicken Legs Cooked in the Air Fryer
- To accompany the chicken pasta salad, try serving a side of buttered Focaccia Bread or toasted baguette slices. Garlic Cheese Bread is a bread made with garlic and cheese. Cooked veggies, such as these Roasted Air Fryer Vegetables, Bacon Wrapped Asparagus (Oven Baked), and Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, would make an excellent side dish to accompany this chilled pasta.
How to Store Chicken Pasta Salad
Refrigerate any leftover Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days if you have any. Just give it a good stir and put it on the table when you are ready.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it is possible! Due to the fact that the pasta and chicken have absorbed more of the dressing and flavor the second day, this pasta salad actually tastes better the second day. Making it ahead of time is not recommended since the veggies will turn mushy if left out for more than 2-3 days. The dressing, on the other hand, may be made up to a week ahead of time and then mixed in with freshly prepared pasta, vegetables, and chicken.
More great salad recipes to enjoy!
- Recipes for Tri Color Pasta Salad (with video)
- Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
- BLT Pasta Salad
- Pesto Pasta Salad (with video)
- Tuna Pasta Salad
- And more.
Full Recipe Instructions
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 1cupcherry tomatoes
- 1cupcucumber
- 1/2 cupred onion chopped
- 1Avocado
- 1cupcherry tomatoes, 1cupcucumber, 1/2 cupred onion, 1Avocado
- 1cupcherry tomatoes, 1cupcucumber, 1/2 cupred onion, chopped
- 1Avocado, chopped
Cook and chop up the chicken
- Begin by slicing 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken into thin cutlets, about 1/8 inch thick. After that, season both sides of the chicken with 1 teaspoon isItalian seasoning, around 1 teaspoon salt or to taste, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Then bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. 2 tablespoons of olive oil are added to a large skillet over medium-high heat and heated through. Then cook the chicken on both sides until it is done. Check to see that your chicken is completely done. The most accurate technique to determine if chicken is done is to place a meat thermometer into the thickest section of the flesh. The temperature should be at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cook pasta and chop up veggies
- Cook 1 pound of tri-color rotini according to package directions in the meantime. Then drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to prevent it from being overcooked. Allow the chicken to rest for approximately 5-10 minutes, covered, after it has been stuffed and cooked. Slice then bite-size pieces of chicken off the chicken breasts. Now, chop up 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup English cucumber, and 1/2 cup red onion into thin slices and set aside. Afterwards, dice 1 avocado into tiny cubes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chopped veggies and chicken
- Mix well.
Make the dressing and mix it into the salad
- To make the dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a large measuring cup and shake well. Combine 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons ponzu sauce, 4 tablespoons boiling water, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Italian seasonings, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a mixing bowl. Mix the dressing ingredients together with a whisk until well combined, then pour over the pasta salad. Toss everything together and serve chilled
calorie count 395kcal|carbohydrate count 41g|protein count 16g|fat count 18g|saturated fat 3g|trans fat 1g|cholesterol count 29mg|sodium count 467mg|potassium count 443mg|fiber count 3g|sugar count 6g|vitamin A 133IU|vitamin C 9mg|calcium 27mg|iron 1 mg Photograph it and tag me on Instagram@simplyhomecookedor use the hashtag simplyhomecookedso that I may see it and include your recipe! Hello, my name is Dina, and I’m delighted you’ve dropped by! I feel that life is too short to waste time drinking lousy coffee and eating dull meals.
I hope you are able to discover something you like!
Reader Interactions
This chicken pasta salad is created with grilled chicken, olives, cheese, and fresh veggies, all of which are mixed in a homemade Italian dressing before serving. This light and refreshing side dish or main course alternative is excellent for serving a large group of people! Nothing beats a nice pasta salad, whether it be pesto pasta salad, Greek salad, or this hearty version that is full with chicken and vegetables. Yummy! Summer is synonymous with pasta salad, and with good reason. Simple to prepare, it is ideal for picnics and potlucks, and it is bursting with flavor.
How do you make chicken pasta salad?
To begin, prepare your chicken and chop it into bite-size pieces when it has been cooked. Preparing the pasta while the chicken is cooking is a great way to use up leftovers. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken and pasta with the tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, fresh mozzarella, and herbs. Toss well to combine. Make your own dressing by drizzling it over the chicken and pasta mixture and tossing until everything is thoroughly mixed. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Tips for the perfect salad
- I prefer to grill boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. That being said, other types of cooked chicken will also work just fine such as leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Chicken thighs will also work in lieu of the breasts
- s Chicken pasta salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing pasta salad
- s You can make the Italian dressing 2 days before you plan to use it. Want to save on prep time? Buy a bottle of high quality prepared Italian dressing instead of making your own
- I like to use a mandoline to thinly shave the red onion for the salad
- While I typically use kalamata olives, any type of olives will work such as green olives or traditional ripe black olives
DOES PASTA SALAD NEED TO BE REFRIGERATED?
Once you’ve made the pasta salad, it should be kept refrigerated until you’re ready to serve it. It is not recommended to leave the salad out at room temperature for more than two hours. For food safety reasons, it’s advisable to just leave the salad out for one hour on a particularly hot day to avoid any potential food safety concerns.
Chicken pasta salad flavor variations
This meal is delicious as described, but the beauty of pasta salad is that you can tweak the flavors to suit your preferences by adding a variety of other ingredients.
- Alternately, you may substitute any sort of short pasta, such as penne or farfalle
- Shells or macaroni can also be used instead of rotini. If you want to increase the protein content, you may use canned chickpeas, salami, or cooked crumbled bacon. Cheese: Feta cheese, extra sharp white cheddar, or shaved parmesan can be substituted for the mozzarella cheese. Vegetables: Include cooked green beans, avocado, marinated artichoke hearts, raw spinach, or grilled zucchini in the mix to add extra vegetables to the dish.
This chicken pasta salad is the epitome of a straightforward dish. This dish is a hit with my entire family, and you really can’t go wrong with the mix of succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and spaghetti.
More salad recipes you’ll enjoy
- The following salads are served: Asian Slaw with Sesame Dressing, German Potato Salad, Corn Salad, cucumber salad, and Panzanella Salad.
Chicken Pasta Salad Video
This chicken pasta salad is created with grilled chicken, olives, cheese, and fresh veggies, all of which are mixed in a homemade Italian dressing before serving. This light and refreshing side dish or main course alternative is excellent for serving a large group of people! Course Salad and a side dish are also acceptable options. American CuisineKeywordschicken pasta salad, pasta salad, chicken pasta salad Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time is 25 minutes. Time allotted: 40 minutes Servings8servings Calories341kcal
For the salad
- 1/4cupfresh parsley leavesfinely chopped
- 1 1/4cupshomemade or store bought Italian dressingdressing recipe is below
- 1 poundrotini pasta
- 1 poundboneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cupcucumberquartered and sliced
- 1 cupcherry tomatoeshalved
- 1/4cupred onionthinly sliced
- 1/2 cupkalamata oliveshalved
- 3/4 cupsmall mozzarella ballshalved
- 1/4 cup fresh par season with salt and pepper to taste
For the dressing
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh red bell pepper finely minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced dried onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
For the salad
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste after drizzling the tablespoon of olive oil over them. Place the chicken on the grill and cook until done. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the meat is cooked through. Allow it cool for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Cook the rotini according to the package guidelines in salted water until tender. Drain and rinse well with cold water
For the dressing
- In a jar or mixing dish, combine all of the ingredients. If using a bowl, whisk rapidly to blend, or shake violently if using a jar. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve it.
For assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spaghetti, chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, mozzarella balls, and parsley. Toss well to combine. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spaghetti mixture and the dressing. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve right now or store in the refrigerator for later use.
Calories:341kcal|Carbohydrates:42g|Protein:17g|Fat:18g|Cholesterol:14mg|Sodium:716mg|Fiber:4g|Sugar:9g