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Chicken Macaroni Salad

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
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.