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Chicken Pasta Salad

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This creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish made with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, shredded cheese, and a tangy, rich dressing. Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes + 20 minutes rest
  • Yield: 10–12 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 500 g (1 lb) macaroni or elbow pasta (or other short pasta shape)
  • 1 tbsp salt (for cooking the pasta)
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely sliced
  • 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), finely diced
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • 2 medium carrots, shredded
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, or Colby style)
  • 2 medium-small avocados, cut into bite-size pieces (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 tbsp cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 4 tsp sugar
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and let cool completely.
  2. While pasta cools, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let rest 10 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, celery, capsicum, green onions, carrots, shredded cheese, and avocado (if using).
  4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Let sit for 20 minutes before transferring to a serving bowl. Serve at room temperature.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or corn for more texture and color.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier flavor.
  • Pasta salad tastes best at room temperature—remove from fridge 30 minutes before serving.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days; do not freeze.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/chicken-pasta-salad/