Chicken Macaroni Salad

As the warm summer sun shines, nothing beats a delightful plate of Chicken Macaroni Salad on the picnic table. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; the vibrant colors and creamy texture made it an instant hit. This dish is not only a staple at barbecues and potlucks but also a nostalgic reminder of lazy afternoons spent with loved ones. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a hint of zest from the ranch dressing, each bite is a celebration of flavor. I love preparing this salad because it’s easy to throw together and can be made ahead of time, leaving me free to enjoy the day. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just want a quick lunch, the Chicken Macaroni Salad will surely satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients Required for Chicken Macaroni Salad

When it comes to the Chicken Macaroni Salad, the harmony of its ingredients truly shines. The combination of macaroni, chicken, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying dish that pleases the palate. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tender pasta to the crunchy peas, making it a well-rounded meal. Here’s what you need to create this delightful salad:

• 16 oz macaroni – The base of the salad, bringing a comforting texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken – Adds protein and a savory element.
• 1 bag frozen peas – Introduces a pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 cup milk – Contributes creaminess to the dressing.
• 1 1/4 cups light mayonnaise – The heart of the dressing, making it rich and creamy.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing – Adds a zesty flavor that complements the salad.
• Salt, pepper, paprika to taste – Season to elevate the overall taste.

The Method for Chicken Macaroni Salad

Making the Chicken Macaroni Salad is a breeze, and it’s a great way to involve family or friends in the kitchen. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve. Here’s how to make it:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and salt to the boiling water, stirring occasionally. Cook until the macaroni is tender yet firm to the bite, usually around eight to ten minutes. This will ensure a great texture for the salad.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy as it cools.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, frozen peas, and shredded chicken. Gently toss these ingredients to mix them evenly. This step ensures that every bite of the Chicken Macaroni Salad has a delightful combination of flavors.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, light mayonnaise, and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy. This is the dressing that will tie all the components together.
5. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta, peas, and chicken. Mix well to ensure that the dressing coats every piece of pasta and chicken, creating a creamy texture.
6. Season the salad with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good stir. You may find that it thickens slightly, so feel free to add a splash more of milk or dressing to loosen it up if desired.
9. Serve the Chicken Macaroni Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
10. Enjoy the salad cold, and watch it disappear quickly from the table!

Customization Ideas

The Chicken Macaroni Salad offers endless possibilities for customization. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add crunch: Consider adding diced celery or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor and add a fresh touch.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or crumbled feta can add a delightful creaminess.
• Protein variations: Swap the chicken for diced turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Switch up the dressing: Experiment with homemade dressings to create unique flavors.
• Spicy twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Perfect Matches for Chicken Macaroni Salad

When serving your Chicken Macaroni Salad, consider these perfect pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: This salad complements grilled chicken perfectly, making it an excellent side for a barbecue.
• Sandwiches: Pair it with a variety of sandwiches for a satisfying lunch.
• Outdoor picnics: It’s an ideal dish to bring along for picnics or potlucks with friends.
• Summer BBQs: The coolness of the salad is a refreshing contrast to hot grilled foods.
• Light Dinner: Serve it alongside a light soup for a fulfilling yet not heavy dinner option.
• Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Macaroni Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. With its creamy dressing, tender pasta, and savory chicken, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. So why not give it a try? You won’t be disappointed, and it might just become a favorite in your household.

Chicken Macaroni Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Macaroni Salad is creamy, satisfying, and perfect for gatherings. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a zesty dressing, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 16 oz macaroni
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken
• 1 bag frozen peas
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/4 cups light mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• to taste paprika

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and salt to the boiling water, stirring occasionally. Cook until the macaroni is tender yet firm to the bite, usually around eight to ten minutes.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, frozen peas, and shredded chicken. Gently toss these ingredients to mix them evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, light mayonnaise, and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta, peas, and chicken. Mix well to ensure that the dressing coats every piece.
6. Season the salad with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving.
8. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good stir and adjust the dressing if needed.
9. Serve the Chicken Macaroni Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika.
10. Enjoy the salad cold, and watch it disappear quickly from the table!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!