Simple Chicken Pasta Salad
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Memorial weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and to me, it’s the perfect time to embrace all the vibrant, fresh flavors of the season. Pasta salads are a staple during these sunny months, offering a cool and versatile dish that’s great for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re headed to a picnic, hosting a potluck, or need a quick weeknight dinner idea, today’s Simple Chicken Pasta Salad is an absolute crowd-pleaser!
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and accessibility—you’ll likely already have many of the ingredients in your kitchen. This pasta salad features tender chunks of chicken combined with perfectly cooked pasta, creamy dressing, and the subtle richness of hard-boiled eggs, making it both satisfying and nutrient-packed. It reminds me of my recipe for simple chicken salad, which I love serving inside buttery croissants, as they both share the addition of protein-rich eggs alongside the chicken.
This protein-packed pasta salad brings a delightful combination of textures and flavors, creating a dish that’s hearty yet refreshing. Plus, its versatility means it pairs wonderfully with other summer favorites, like grilled vegetables or fresh fruit salads. Whether you’re celebrating the season with family or making a casual meal for yourself, this recipe is a go-to for effortless summer enjoyment!
Ingredients to Make Simple Chicken Pasta Salad
- MAYONNAISE
- MILK
- LEMON JUICE
- SALT AND BLACK PEPPER
- ROTINI PASTA
- COOKED CHICKEN
- CELERY
- HARD-BOILED EGGS
- RED ONION
- PARSLEY
How to Make Simple Chicken Pasta Salad
You start by mixing together the dressing ingredients. Add the mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a large bowl. Whisk together until combined.
Next, add in the cooked pasta, chicken, celery, hard boiled eggs, red onion, and parsley. Mix everything together until the dressing coats everything thoroughly.
Give the salad a taste and add additional salt and pepper if needed. You can serve the salad immediately or give it some time to chill in the fridge. I prefer it cold. See how simple this was?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of pasta for this salad?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Common alternative pasta shapes include penne, fusilli, and farfalle. You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta as alternatives.
How long can I store the chicken pasta salad recipe in the refrigerator?
You can store the chicken pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best quality, consume it within this time frame.
Can I make the chicken pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, often enhancing the taste. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What type of cooked chicken should I use?
You can use grilled, baked, or poached chicken breasts. Leftover rotisserie chicken also works well. Ensure you cook the chicken thoroughly and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
What can I do if the salad seems too dry after refrigeration?
If the salad seems dry after refrigerating it, add a little milk and toss to refresh the flavors.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Simple Chicken Pasta Salad
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup milk
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb rotini pasta cooked
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breasts
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 4 eggs hard boiled
- ⅛ cup red onion finely chopped
- ⅛ cup parsley chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Whisk together until combined.
- Add in the cooked rotini pasta, chicken, celery, onions, parsley, eggs.
- Toss everything in the bowl to combine and adjust salt and pepper to taste if needed.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from Courtney’s Sweets.
