Looking for a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even just a simple family dinner? Look no further than our Classic Chicken Pasta Salad recipe! This dish is a timeless favorite that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp veggies, and a flavorful dressing to create a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Classic Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
– 1/3 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Add the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and gently fold it into the chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill.
6. Once chilled, give the salad a final toss to make sure everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve the Classic Chicken Pasta Salad chilled, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish on its own or as a side to grilled meats or seafood.
This Classic Chicken Pasta Salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, veggies, and flavor, this dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to use up leftover chicken. Prepare a batch ahead of time for a quick and satisfying meal option that’s ready to enjoy at any moment. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
