Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad Hearty Favorite
This robust, protein-packed centerpiece balances a velvety cream sauce with the refreshing snap of garden-fresh vegetables and tender rotini pasta. It is a satisfying, high-protein meal that stays fresh and vibrant for days, making it perfect for meal prep or social gatherings.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
- 16 oz Rotini or Bowtie pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast rotisserie or grilled
- ½ cup full-fat mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas, thawed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of heavily salted water and cook the pasta until it is just past al dente.
- Immediately rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch, then drain thoroughly.
- Shred or cube the pre-cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, diced celery, minced red onion, and thawed peas.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the ingredients and use a large spatula to toss gently until every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir; if it seems dry, add a tablespoon of milk or extra yogurt to loosen the texture.
Notes
This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a smoky flavor, add crispy bacon or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. For a Mediterranean twist, add feta cheese and kalamata olives. If using gluten-free pasta, cook it slightly less than the package directions to ensure it maintains its shape.