Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
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This Chicken Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that fits anywhere—weeknight dinners, picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or light lunches. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy yet zesty dressing come together in perfect balance: hearty enough to satisfy, yet refreshing and light.
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Served chilled on a hot day or straight from the fridge, it delivers comfort, color, and flavor in every bite.
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Chicken Pasta Salad 🥗✨
Ingredients
For the Salad
| Ingredient | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Cooked pasta | Rotini, penne, bowtie, or fusilli work best |
| Cooked chicken | Grilled, roasted, or pan-seared breast |
| Cherry tomatoes | Halved |
| Cucumber | Diced |
| Red onion | Finely chopped |
| Bell pepper | Diced |
| Sweet corn | Optional, adds freshness |
| Fresh parsley/basil | Chopped |
For the Dressing
| Ingredient | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise / Greek yogurt | Or a mix of both |
| Olive oil | A drizzle |
| Lemon juice / Apple cider vinegar | For brightness |
| Dijon mustard | 1–2 tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Optional spices | Paprika or Italian seasoning |
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking. Cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- If uncooked, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian seasoning.
- Cook in olive oil over medium heat until golden and cooked through.
- Rest briefly, then cut into bite-sized cubes or strips.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
- Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion evenly.
- Halve cherry tomatoes.
- Chop fresh herbs for aroma and color.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo (or yogurt), olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Dressing should be creamy, tangy, and balanced.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, and vegetables.
- Pour dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill & Blend Flavors
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- This resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Final Touches
- Stir gently before serving.
- Add extra herbs, a pinch of salt, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
✨ Tip: This salad is endlessly adaptable—swap veggies for what you have on hand, use leftover rotisserie chicken, or try a lighter dressing with yogurt for a tangy twist.
