Description
A creamy, tangy chicken pasta salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a hearty lunch. This ultimate recipe combines tender cooked chicken, rotini pasta, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and chop the green onions. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed for a creamy, tangy dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use chicken breast that is grilled or roasted beforehand for added flavor.
- The salad can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- You can substitute rotini with penne or any short pasta shape you prefer.
- If you want a lighter option, reduce mayonnaise or use all Greek yogurt.
- Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or fresh herbs like dill can elevate the flavor.
