Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, a satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy dressing for a perfect meal or side dish. This salad is a crowd-pleaser and a great option for picnics, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a versatile and convenient dish that can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. It offers a balance of textures and flavors, from the crunch of almonds to the sweetness of raisins, all tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. rotini pasta
• 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken breast
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 4 strips smoked bacon (cooked and chopped)
• 1 cup mild cheddar cheese (cubed)
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 3/4 cup sliced toasted almonds
• 4 green onions (sliced)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp. pure honey
• 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Directions:

1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions and strain.
2. Rinse pasta under cold water and drizzle with a little bit of oil.
3. In a large serving bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and whisk until smooth.
4. Add rotini pasta, chicken, broccoli florets, bacon, cheddar cheese cubes, raisins, celery, sliced almonds, and green onions.
5. Toss to coat the salad in the dressing and serve.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a main dish or side dish. Garnish with additional sliced almonds or green onions for an extra touch of freshness.

How to Store Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes dry, you can add a little more dressing before serving.

Tips to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Use rotisserie chicken for added convenience and flavor.
• Toast the almonds for a nutty crunch before adding them to the salad.
• Adjust the seasoning and sweetness of the dressing to your preference.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and reduce the amount of mayonnaise for a tangier dressing. You can also add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta shapes for this salad? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as bowtie, penne, or shells.
2. How far in advance can I make this salad? You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to avoid the ingredients becoming soggy.
3. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? Yes, you can use cooked shrimp, turkey, or even tofu as a protein alternative.