Irresistible Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this scrumptious Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad. Perfect for warm days and cozy nights alike, this dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a luscious, tangy dressing. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that's sure to become a family favorite.

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• For the Salad:
  • 3 cups rotini pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• For the Dressing:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.

Prepare the Chicken:

If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken cool before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Chop the Vegetables:

While the pasta is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives.

Mix the Dressing:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed, adding a little water if the dressing is too thick.

Combine the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the salad for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Perfect Pairings and Final Thoughts:

Pair this delightful Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. For an extra touch, serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or iced tea.

You’ll love how easy and enjoyable it is to prepare this dish for your loved ones. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a casual family dinner. The vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it an unforgettable addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite!