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Chicken Pasta Salad

Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines pasta, chicken, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing well.

Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced Can be rotisserie chicken or freshly grilled.

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced Provides a cool crunch.
  • 1 each bell pepper, diced Any color adds sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped Gives depth to the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced Adds a briny kick.
  • 1 cup corn, cooked Can be frozen or fresh.
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled Optional, adds creaminess.

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Acts as a creamy base.
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt Adds creaminess and tang.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Adds acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Gives a subtle garlicky flavor.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor.
  • for garnish fresh parsley or basil, chopped Adds aroma and color.

Instructions
 

  • 1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  • 2. Prepare the chicken by shredding rotisserie chicken or cooking chicken breast until fully cooked, then chop into cubes.
  • 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and chicken with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and corn. Toss gently.
  • 4. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • 5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and fold gently to coat. Add feta cheese if desired.
  • 6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  • 7. Stir before serving, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with parsley or basil.
  • 8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

This salad can be customized with different proteins, pasta types, and vegetables based on your preferences.
Keyword Easy