Hey, foodies! Today, we’re diving into a culinary adventure with a recipe that’s a true crowd-pleaser: the Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad. If you’re someone who loves meals that are not only delicious but also simple to whip up, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is all about bringing together everyday ingredients to create something extraordinary. Think tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, crunchy almonds, and a burst of sweetness from dried cranberries, all coated in a creamy, flavourful dressing. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between convenience and taste, making it ideal for busy students, home cooks, or anyone craving a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare. So, join me in the kitchen as we uncover the secrets behind this delicious Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad!
Why this Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad is best:
- Awesome Flavours: This salad rocks because it’s a mix of tasty stuff like juicy chicken, chewy pasta, crunchy almonds, and sweet cranberries, all smothered in creamy mayo. Each bite’s a flavour explosion!
- Make It Your Way: You can totally mix things up! Throw in veggies you love or swap nuts and fruits. This salad’s your canvas to create the perfect taste just for you.
- Easy Peasy: It’s a no-sweat recipe. Super simple steps mean you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Perfect for busy days or last-minute hangouts with friends.
- Good for You: It’s not just yummy; it’s got good stuff too! Chicken for protein, veggies for vitamins, and healthy fats from nuts and mayo. A meal that’s satisfying and healthy.
- Party Hit: Whether it’s a chill dinner, a big bash, or a picnic, this salad a hit. It looks great, tastes even better, and everyone loves it!
How to make Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad:
1
Prepare the Ingredients
â—‰ Cook 3 cups of small shell macaroni separately until al dente.
2
Create the Dressing
3
Assemble the Salad
4
Add the Dressing
5
Toss Gently
6
Chill Before Serving
7
Serve and Enjoy
Chef’s Tips of healthy chicken pasta salad recipe
- Use low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt instead of Miracle Whip.
- Use reduced-fat mayonnaise or yogurt instead of Miracle Whip.
- If you are using fresh chopped tomatoes, cut them into small pieces so they blend in easily with the pasta and other ingredients.
- Use canned tuna, salmon, or prawns instead of chicken.
- Add chopped fresh spinach leaves to the pasta salad.
- Add chopped celery and/or red pepper to the pasta salad.
- Add chopped pickles, olives, or jalapeno peppers to serve.
Other Recipes you will Love:
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- Corn avocado tomato salad with honey lime dressing
- keto broccoli salad recipe
Delicious Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad Recipe
Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad with Al dente Macaroni is a delicious combination of tender chicken, creamy mayo dressing, and creamy macaroni. Easy to make, this salad is great for a quick lunch or a delicious side dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 tbsp onion, chopped
- 3 cups cooked small shell macaroni
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Dash of pepper
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1/2 tsp celery seed
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
Instructions
1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Cook the chicken and macaroni separately until tender.
- Cube the cooked chicken, chop celery, and onion.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, salt, pepper, sugar, vinegar, celery seed, and ground mustard. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, add the cooked macaroni, cubed chicken, chopped celery, chopped onion, slivered almonds, and dried cranberries.
4. Add the Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.
5. Mix Thoroughly:
- Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavours meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your Chicken Mayo Pasta Salad!