poultry
boiled
everyday
main course
creamy
International
all seasons
Cold
Chicken Pasta Salad
Difficulty
easy
Time
35m
Price Category
average
Calories
Medium
Chicken pasta salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish, perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic. It's easy to prepare and highly versatile with various vegetables, allowing everyone to find their favorite combination. The creamy dressing and juicy chicken make this simple yet delicious meal truly irresistible. It's an ideal make-ahead dish that tastes great chilled.
ingredients
Steps
Prepare Chicken & Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water. Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then pan-fry or grill them over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
Chop Vegetables
While chicken and pasta cool, dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the fresh dill and parsley.
Make Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs.
Combine & Chill
Add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, and chopped vegetables to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Extra Tips
► Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version, or gluten-free pasta if you have sensitivities.
► Experiment with other vegetables like corn, broccoli, or olives to make the salad even more varied.
► Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 500g | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 185 kcal | 925 kcal |
| Protein | 12g | 60g |
| Fat | 9g | 45g |
| Carbohydrate | 14g | 70g |
| Fiber | 1.5g | 7.5g |
| Sugar | 2g | 10g |