This Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of chicken, crunchy bacon, fresh veggies, and pasta all dressed in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for picnics or quick family dinners!
I love how colorful it is, and the bacon adds a fun crunch. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s a hit with everyone at my table! Perfect for those busy days! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using curly pasta like cavatappi or elbow macaroni because it holds the dressing nicely. If you prefer a different shape, rotini or penne also work well as they capture flavors beautifully!
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast brings protein and heartiness. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even leftover grilled chicken. For a lighter option, shredded turkey is a great substitute.
Bacon: Bacon adds a satisfying crunch. Turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon can substitute for a healthier or vegetarian version. If you’re avoiding pork, smoked tempeh is a tasty alternative!
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and bell peppers bring color and freshness. Feel free to swap in other favorites like diced cucumbers or sweet corn if those are what you have on hand.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here for its sharp flavor. You could use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if you need a different flavor or a dairy substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh?
Chilling your pasta salad is essential for blending flavors but also for keeping it fresh. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure the pasta is cooled completely before adding other ingredients; this prevents the dressing from getting warm and separating.
- Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps keep the salad fresh for up to 3 days!
- If you’re planning to serve it later, wait to add tomatoes or lettuce until just before serving for the best texture.
Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces curly pasta (cavatappi or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add your curly pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced celery, diced green bell pepper, and cubed cheddar cheese. This colorful combination will not only taste great but also look lovely on your table!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the magical dressing that brings all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Give your pasta salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it needs a little more flavor, add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the pasta salad a quick stir and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on top for a final touch. Enjoy your refreshing and tasty Chicken Club Pasta Salad!
Dig in and savor every bite of your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s diced or shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad stores well in the fridge! You can prepare it up to 1 day in advance. Just keep it covered in an airtight container, and the flavors will blend even more. Just remember to stir again before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative such as vegan mayo or avocado. Both will provide a creamy texture while adding a unique flavor!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Chicken Club Pasta Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy it cold or gently reheat it if preferred!
