This cold chicken pasta salad has a tropical flavor, combining sweet and savory tastes in every bite. Enjoy a taste of the tropics! This refreshing dish is perfect for any summer gathering and picnics.

The dressing for this salad is creamy and savory. It contains mayonnaise, a blend of dry spices, and a touch of apple cider vinegar.

Then, you have tender pasta and savory chicken. I like to cook my chicken in the slow cooker or pick up a rotisserie chicken from the store when making it.

The tropical flair comes from a combination of fruits: pineapple, grapes, mandarin oranges, and dried cranberries. My husband was worried about the dried cranberries—he’s not a cranberry fan—but then he ended up saying he actually enjoyed them in this salad!

Celery is added for crunch and color. Then, you have green onion for freshness and color. You can finish it with some sliced almonds for even more crunch and a nutty flavor. It also ups the protein.

Tropical Chicken Salad Ingredients

• MAYONNAISE
• BON APPETIT OR BEAU MONDE SEASONING
• SUGAR
• CELERY SALT
• ONION POWDER
• CIDER VINEGAR
• SALT AND BLACK PEPPER
• ROTINI PASTA
• COOKED CHICKEN BREASTS
• PINEAPPLE TIDBITS
• MANDARIN ORANGES
• RED GRAPES
• GREEN ONION
• CELERY
• DRIED CRANBERRIES
• SLIVERED ALMONDS

How to Make Tropical Chicken Pasta Salad RECIPE

Start by whisking together all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Once mixed, refrigerate the dressing. This will allow the flavors meld together while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. After cooking, rinse the pasta under cool water and drain well. This will prevent it from cooking further and cool the pasta.

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, pineapple, grapes, sliced green onions, celery, and dried cranberries. Toss everything with the chilled dressing to coat evenly.

Carefully fold in mandarin oranges to avoid breaking them. If you’re adding almonds, sprinkle them on top for a crunchy finish. Serve the salad immediately. This tropical pasta salad is a colorful, refreshing dish that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best in this salad?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, macaroni, penne, or bowtie pasta work well as they easily catch and hold the dressing and mix-ins. Their texture also complements the chunks of fruit and chicken.

Can I use canned chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, both canned chicken and shredded rotisserie chicken are convenient options that work well in this salad. They save time and still add the necessary protein.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance. To keep the pasta fresh, add the fruits and dressing a few hours before serving and stir together. This will prevent the pasta from soaking up all the dressing. This is one of the many simple pasta salad recipes that are perfect for potlucks and parties.

How long can I store this pasta salad in the fridge?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours to ensure the best flavor and texture, especially once the dressing and fruits have been added.

Is this salad gluten-free?
This salad can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta alternative made from rice, quinoa, or corn. Always check the labels on other ingredients, like canned fruits, to ensure they are also gluten-free.

FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:

• Tropical Dip
• Fruited Tuna Salad Pitas
• Sweet Chicken Pasta Salad
• Tex-Mex Chicken Pasta Salad

This recipe is adapted from Let’s Dish Recipes.