Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a delicious, satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a make-ahead meal. This salad combines tender chicken with pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing, making it a refreshing yet filling option. The creamy dressing is seasoned with a touch of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon juice, balancing the flavors perfectly. Not only is this pasta salad versatile—add your favorite veggies or herbs for a unique twist—it’s also easy to prepare and holds up well in the fridge. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a tasty, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, celery, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, black olives (if using), red onion, and chopped parsley.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve cold, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its blend of textures and refreshing flavors, it’s a go-to choice for picnics, potlucks, or as a hearty lunch or light dinner.