A absolutely delightful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the lean protein of chicken, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of tender chicken and al dente pasta provides a satisfying texture contrast.
- Mayonnaise-based dressing ensures a creamy, rich flavor that coats every ingredient perfectly.
- It’s versatile; easily customizable with your favorite veggies or herbs.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as flavors meld together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by ensuring your chicken is cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Chop your celery and red onion finely to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the salad.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This creamy dressing will coat your pasta and chicken beautifully, so make sure it’s well mixed.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, chopped celery, and diced red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the mayonnaise mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the pasta.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to cool to the perfect temperature for enjoying.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve it cold, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or as a side at your next barbecue.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as chilling can mute flavors slightly. For a more vibrant salad, add some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. Lastly, if you’re making this salad ahead of time, hold off on adding the onions until just before serving to keep their crunch.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for turkey or ham for a different protein twist.
- Add some curry powder to the dressing for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Include some grapes or apples for a sweet contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
- Mix in some avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after it’s had time to chill in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dish. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
Stored properly, this pasta chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the pasta may start to soften too much, and the flavors won’t be as vibrant.
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing and pasta texture will not hold up well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Summary
This creamy pasta chicken salad with mayonnaise is a versatile, delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
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