If you’re searching for a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, potlucks, or a light dinner, look no further than this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe. It beautifully combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that brings every bite to life. Not only is it bursting with color and texture, but its balanced flavors make it a delicious crowd-pleaser that’s simple to whip up any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe plays a crucial role in the final taste and texture. From the hearty chicken providing protein to the fresh and crunchy broccoli, each add a unique element that elevates the dish. The creamy dressing ties everything together, creating that irresistible flavor combination you won’t be able to stop eating.
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups): Adds tender, savory protein that makes this salad more filling.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups, steamed): Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant green color that brightens each bite.
- Cooked pasta (2 cups, rotini or penne): Provides soft, chewy texture and the perfect base to marry the ingredients.
- Red onion (1/2, diced): Brings a hint of sharpness and a pop of purple that livens up the salad visually and taste-wise.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Infuses creamy richness and a slightly tangy note that you’ll love.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy backbone of the dressing for smoothness and moisture.
- Greek yogurt (1/4 cup): Adds tang and lightness to the dressing, balancing the richness.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Gives a subtle kick and depth to the dressing’s flavor profile.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Delivers a refreshing acidity that brightens and lifts the salad.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal finish and a lovely green touch as garnish.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Begin by placing the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli florets, cooked pasta, diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese into a large mixing bowl. This step ensures that every element is evenly distributed, so you get that perfect bite with every forkful.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisking until smooth creates a luscious dressing that will coat the salad with just the right amount of creaminess while balancing tang and spice.
Step 3: Toss to Combine
Pour your freshly made dressing over the combined ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything carefully but thoroughly so that the dressing envelopes each piece of pasta, broccoli, and chicken equally. This guarantees a harmonious blend of flavors in every serving.
Step 4: Chill for Flavor
Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill it for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad taste even more delicious when served cold.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. This final touch not only looks inviting but adds a subtle herbal note that lifts the entire dish.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe with fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a few toasted pine nuts for a bit of extra texture and zing. A little extra shredded cheese on top doesn’t hurt either if you’re craving more creaminess.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs fantastically with light sides such as a crisp green salad or garlic bread. It also makes a perfect companion to grilled meats or a picnic spread where variety is key. Because the salad is so filling, it can even be the star of a casual dinner with just a crusty loaf alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or inside lettuce cups as bite-sized appetizers. Layering it in clear glass jars for meal prep or picnics also makes for a visually appealing presentation that’s easy and convenient.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt-based dressing can separate and the broccoli texture may be compromised. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated, rather than frozen.
Reheating
Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t recommended. If you do prefer a warm bite, gently heat just the chicken and broccoli separately, then toss with fresh cooked pasta and freshly made dressing before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotini or penne are great choices because they hold the dressing well, but you can use other shapes like bowtie or macaroni depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this chicken broccoli pasta salad vegan?
Yes, by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and replacing the mayonnaise and cheese with vegan alternatives, you can easily make this a vegan-friendly dish.
How long should I steam the broccoli for this salad?
Steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. You want it to retain a bit of crunch and bright green color rather than get soft and mushy.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Definitely! The flavors actually improve after chilling for at least 30 minutes, and it can be prepared up to a day in advance for convenience.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the dressing?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or extra mayonnaise for creaminess, though Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and lighter texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe that makes it a trusty go-to whenever you want a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. With its creamy dressing, wholesome ingredients, and cheerful colors, it’s sure to become one of your favorite dishes too. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and hearty Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad combining tender chicken breast, nutritious steamed broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing featuring mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or light dinner, offering a balance of protein, veggies, and creamy flavors chilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli florets, cooked pasta, diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss to mix all the main components evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended, ensuring a creamy and tangy consistency.
- Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture, then toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient evenly with the dressing for maximum flavor throughout.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste of the salad.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color. Serve the salad cold for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked and cooled pasta to avoid mushiness in the salad.
- Steaming broccoli lightly retains its crunch and nutrients; do not overcook.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with all mayonnaise for a richer, but less tangy dressing.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder to the dressing.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
