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Delicious and Easy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

calendar_today February 15, 2026 schedule 2 min read

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Prep

20 minutes

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Cook

15 minutes

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Rest

30 minutes

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Cool

15 minutes

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Servings

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Calories

450 kcal

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Per Serving

3.50 $

A delicious and easy Chicken Pasta Salad recipe perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and easy to customize.

restaurant_menu Ingredients format_list_numbered Instructions

restaurant_menu Ingredients

Servings

For the Salad

check 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, fusilli, or bowtie) check 2 cups cooked chicken, diced check 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved check 1 medium cucumber, diced check 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped check 1 medium bell pepper, diced check 1 cup sweet corn (optional) check 1/4 cup fresh parsley/basil, chopped

For the Dressing

check 1 cup mayonnaise (or 1/2 cup mayo and 1/2 cup Greek yogurt) check 2 tablespoons olive oil check 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar) check 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard check 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder check Salt & black pepper to taste check Optional spices (paprika or Italian herbs)

hardware Essential Tools

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Large pot

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Colander

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Large bowl

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Small bowl

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Whisk

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Cutting board

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Knife

format_list_numbered Preparation

Preparation

Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and rinse with cold water.

Cook chicken, let rest, and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Halve cherry tomatoes.

Chop fresh herbs.

Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assembly

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, and vegetables.

Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Try These Variations

Mediterranean Twist

Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Spicy Kick

Incorporate some red pepper flakes, jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing.

Italian Flair

Use pesto instead of the creamy dressing and add mozzarella balls and artichoke hearts.

Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese.

BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Toss the cooked chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce before adding it to the salad.

Chef's Pro Tips

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the salad.

Cool the Pasta Completely

This prevents the vegetables from wilting and the dressing from thinning out.

Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

The fresher the ingredients, the better the salad will taste.

Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings in the dressing to suit your preferences.

Let the Flavors Meld

Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to come together and create a more cohesive dish.

Storage Guide

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To store leftover Chicken Pasta Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. The salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to consume it within this time frame for the best quality and to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses. It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the pasta and vegetables can become mushy when thawed.

Avoid These Mistakes

✕ Overcooking the Pasta

Mushy pasta will ruin the texture of the salad.

✕ Adding Warm Pasta

Warm pasta can wilt the vegetables and thin out the dressing.

✕ Using Too Much Dressing

Overdressing the salad can make it soggy and heavy.

✕ Skipping the Chilling Time

Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.

nutrition Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 1.5 cups

450 kcal Calories

30g Protein

40g Carbohydrates

20g Fat

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

flag Conclusion

In conclusion, this Chicken Pasta Salad recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish. Its adaptability, convenience, and nutritional value make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delightful salad that will impress your family and friends.

sell Related Topics

#pasta salad #summer salad #chicken recipes #easy lunch #potluck recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time? expand_more

Yes, this Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator. You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I use different types of pasta? expand_more

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as rotini, penne, fusilli, or bowtie. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad? expand_more

Of course! This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli florets, carrots, or celery. Just be sure to dice them into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture.

Can I use a different type of dressing? expand_more

Yes, you can use any type of dressing you prefer. However, a creamy, zesty dressing complements the other ingredients in the salad particularly well. You can also try using a vinaigrette or a lighter yogurt-based dressing for a tangy twist.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator? expand_more

This Chicken Pasta Salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze this salad? expand_more

Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the pasta and vegetables can become mushy when thawed. It's best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.

Is this salad gluten-free? expand_more

This salad is not naturally gluten-free, as it contains pasta made from wheat flour. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the label to ensure that the pasta is certified gluten-free.