Description
This Summery Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Each bite bursts with freshness, complemented by the crunch of crisp greens and the tang of zesty lemon.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta to the chicken and vegetable mixture, then pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for all the mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: boiling/mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 600 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 60 milligrams
Keywords: Summery Chicken Pasta Salad, chicken salad, pasta salad, summer recipes, easy salad, creamy dressing, healthy lunch, picnic food, quick meals, fresh ingredients, light dinner, gluten-free option