Description
This Summery Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, zesty dressing. Each bite offers a refreshing crunch from the crisp veggies, balanced by the rich creaminess of the dressing, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: boiling/mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 450 milligrams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 50 milligrams
Keywords: Summery Chicken Pasta Salad, chicken salad, pasta salad, summer recipes, creamy pasta salad, easy salad recipes, healthy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, picnic food, quick meals, fresh ingredients, zesty dressing, light meals