Name: Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces gluten-free pasta noodles (I use brown rice bow tie noodles); 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped); ⅔ cup corn; ⅔ cup green peas; ⅔ cup red pepper; ⅓ cup red onion (finely chopped); 3 stalks green onion (chopped); ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped); ⅔ cup Greek yogurt; 3 Tbsp avocado oil; ¼ cup lemon juice (or rice vinegar); 1 large clove garlic (minced); 2 tsp pure maple syrup (optional); ¾ tsp sea salt (to taste)

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There’s something so comforting about a dish like Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad. I remember the first time I made it; it was a hot summer day, and I was craving something refreshing yet filling. With a mixture of bright veggies, tender chunks of chicken, and a creamy dressing, this salad quickly became a family favorite. It was perfect for picnics and potlucks, and it always elicited compliments and requests for the recipe. What I love most is how versatile it is—you can tweak it based on what you have on hand and still enjoy that delightful blend of flavors. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or to impress guests at a gathering, this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad shines in its simplicity and taste.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

Why This Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad Shines

It’s Incredibly Versatile

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad lies in its adaptability. You can throw in whatever vegetables you have in your fridge—bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach work beautifully. This means you can customize it for any season or occasion, making it a dish you’ll never get tired of.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad is a lifesaver for busy weeks. You can whip it up in advance and store it in the fridge. With its rich flavors developing over time, it tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for lunch at work or quick dinners.

Healthy Yet Satisfying

Loaded with chicken, Greek yogurt, and fresh veggies, this salad is both nutritious and filling. It’s a great way to incorporate protein and fiber into your diet without sacrificing flavor. I often find myself feeling satisfied and energized after a serving.

Great for Gatherings

If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering, this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a surefire hit. It’s colorful, inviting, and can cater to both the health-conscious and those looking for something indulgent. Plus, it looks stunning on a buffet table!

Quick and Easy to Prepare

With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it perfect for novice cooks or those short on time.

Ingredients Required for Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

When it comes to crafting the ideal Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad, the combination of ingredients is key. Each plays a vital role in achieving the right texture and flavor balance. The gluten-free pasta serves as a hearty base, while the chicken adds protein and richness. Fresh vegetables like corn, peas, and bell peppers bring color and crunch, and the dressing—made creamy with Greek yogurt and a hint of lemon juice—ties everything together beautifully.

12 ounces gluten-free pasta noodles (I use brown rice bow tie noodles)
2 cups cooked chicken (chopped)
⅔ cup corn
⅔ cup green peas
⅔ cup red pepper
⅓ cup red onion (finely chopped)
3 stalks green onion (chopped)
¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
⅔ cup Greek yogurt
3 Tbsp avocado oil
¼ cup lemon juice or rice vinegar
1 large clove garlic (minced)
2 tsp pure maple syrup (optional)
¾ tsp sea salt (to taste)

Instructions for Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

Making Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful experience, and I promise you’ll love every step of the process. It’s as simple as cooking the pasta and combining fresh ingredients, but the outcome is far from ordinary. Let’s dive into the steps together!

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Make sure to use plenty of water; this helps prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once cooked, strain it into a colander and rinse it well with cold water. This cooling process is essential as it stops the cooking and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.
While the pasta is cooking, this is a great time to prepare your dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, avocado oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until everything is well-combined, creating a creamy dressing that will coat the pasta beautifully.
Next, chop all the fresh vegetables: red pepper, red onion, and the green onions. The corn and peas can be added straight from the bag if they’re frozen, or you can thaw them quickly under warm water.
Once your pasta is cooled, return it to a mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, and the dressing you prepared earlier. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious dressing.
Taste the salad for seasoning, adding more sea salt or lemon juice if needed. This is your chance to make it just right! If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick.
Transfer your salad to a serving bowl or keep it in the mixing bowl, it’s up to you! Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. If you can let it chill for at least four hours, the flavors will meld together beautifully. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
When you’re ready to enjoy, give it a good stir again to re-combine everything. The sauce might thicken a bit in the fridge, but that just means it’s packed with flavor!
Serve it up and watch everyone’s eyes light up. This Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a showstopper.
Enjoy leftovers for a quick lunch. Just remember, the salad gets more flavorful as it sits, so you’ll be looking forward to that next meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Overcooking the pasta: Avoid overcooking your pasta. Keep an eye on the clock and test it a minute or two before the package advises. You want it al dente, which means it will hold its shape and not become mushy.
Chilling time: For the best flavor, let your Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad chill for a minimum of four hours. If you can make it a day ahead, even better!
Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to swap or add ingredients! You can use different vegetables based on the season or whatever you have on hand. Just remember to maintain a balance of flavors and textures.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days, but it’s best consumed fresh.
Serving size: This salad is perfect for serving a crowd! It can easily be doubled or halved based on your needs.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

When making Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad, there are numerous ways to enhance the dish further. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

Storage: After making your salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents them from getting soggy.
Freezing: While this salad is best fresh, you can freeze the components like the chicken and pasta separately. Assemble the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad. Add a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Make it ahead: If you have a busy week ahead, prepare your Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad in advance. It keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge.
Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the dressing.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad, there are several delightful ways to enjoy it:

As a main dish: This salad can stand alone as a hearty lunch or dinner. It’s filling enough to serve as a complete meal on its own.
At picnics: It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among guests!
With sides: Consider serving it with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
For special occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering, Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is always a hit. It brings people together and encourages sharing.
Seasonal pairings: In the summer, serve it cold alongside BBQ dishes. In the fall, add elements like roasted squash to give it a warm twist.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I recommend preparing it at least four hours in advance, but if you can make it the night before, that’s even better! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad stays delicious for a couple of days, but I bet it won’t last that long!

If you’re looking for a substitute for Greek yogurt, consider using sour cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Keep in mind that each substitute will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of your Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad. If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for a plant-based yogurt that complements the salad’s overall taste.

Store any leftovers of your Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to three days. As it sits, the flavors continue to develop, so it can taste even better the next day. Just be sure to give it a good stir to re-combine everything before serving again!

Yes! You can definitely use any type of pasta you prefer. If you have a favorite shape or style, feel free to swap it in. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially for whole grain or gluten-free options. Make sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture in your Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its creamy texture, combined with fresh ingredients, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering or meal prep. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!