Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad Recipe

Category:Pasta Recipes

This Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for lunch or a picnic! It has tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies all mixed together.

I love how colorful it looks and how simple it is to make. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it tastes great cold! 🍗🍅

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I recommend cavatappi for its fun shape, but elbow macaroni works well too. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta. It’ll still taste great!

Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie chicken makes it easier. Leftovers from another meal also work perfectly!

Bacon: While regular bacon adds a lovely crunch, turkey bacon is a nice alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. You could also skip it for a vegetarian version.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to use mild cheddar or a cheese you prefer. Mozzarella or pepper jack can also change up the taste!

Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds creaminess with some extra protein!

How Do You Make Sure the Pasta Salad is Deliciously Chilled?

Chilling is key for your pasta salad. It allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, making each bite taste better. Here’s how you can do it:

  • After mixing everything, cover your salad with plastic wrap or a lid.
  • Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better. This way, the flavors really develop.
  • Before serving, give it a gentle stir and taste test. You may want to add more salt or pepper to make it pop!

Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad Recipe

Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (such as cavatappi or elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time. Plus, it’s best to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, if you add some chill time, you’re looking at about 45 minutes total. Perfect for making ahead!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cooking the Pasta:

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and give it a rinse under cold water to cool it down. Drain it well to shake off any excess water.

2. Mixing the Main Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, crispy bacon, halved tomatoes, diced celery, and cubed cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is mixed well for an even distribution of flavors!

3. Preparing the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. This dressing adds a delicious, tangy taste to our salad!

4. Combining Everything:

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

5. Final Touches:

Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning. You might want a little extra salt or pepper to bring out all the flavors.

6. Chilling:

Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those delicious flavors meld together!

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once chilled, your Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is ready to serve! Scoop it into bowls, and enjoy it cold. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any gathering!

Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad Recipe

FAQ for Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad

Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Salad?

Absolutely! While cavatappi and elbow macaroni are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente!

What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It will add creaminess with extra protein. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan mayonnaise or a cashew-based alternative.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply give it a gentle stir before enjoying it again, as the dressing may thicken.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, making it ahead of time is a great idea! You can prepare the salad a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge overnight, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.

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