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Chicken Pasta Salad

Discover the secrets to making the perfect Chicken Pasta Salad with this versatile and delicious recipe perfect for any occasion
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (rotini, farfalle, penne, or shell pasta)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, etc.)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional shredded cheese, bacon bits, fresh herbs, sunflower seeds, or sliced almonds

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and rinse with cold water after draining.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and mixed vegetables.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice (or vinegar), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Feel free to customize the vegetables and dressings based on your preferences. Load up on colorful vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. For a healthier version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This salad can be made a day in advance; flavors develop even more when chilled overnight. Remember to reserve some extra dressing for leftovers, as pasta will absorb moisture over time.
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