Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
There’s nothing quite as satisfying—and irresistible—as a big bowl of Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, especially when you’re craving something creamy, colorful, and packed with flavor. This classic dish is more than just a side; with its hearty chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, tangy dressing, and pop of juicy tomatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any picnic, potluck, or quick weekday lunch. I love how it brings together so many textures and tastes, all in one vibrant, make-ahead bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of simple, familiar ingredients can create a Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad that feels both fresh and comforting. Each component brings something special—whether it’s flavor, crunch, or creaminess—so don’t skip the details!
- Pasta: Rotini or bowtie pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully and gives every bite a springy texture.
- Chicken Breast: Cubed or shredded, this lean protein makes the salad hearty and satisfying—perfect for using up leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
- Broccoli Florets: Lightly steamed or blanched, they add a pop of green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy dressing.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness liven up the salad, while their cheerful color is just so inviting.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings a rich, savory note that ties everything together—feel free to use sharp for extra zing.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced, for just the right hint of sharpness and a punch of color.
- Mayonnaise: The base of the creamy dressing—choose a good quality mayo for the best flavor.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Adds tang and lightens up the dressing without sacrificing creaminess.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a spoonful gives the salad a nuanced, gently spicy kick.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brings brightness and balances all the creamy components.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go to make it just right!
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the rotini or bowtie pasta according to the package directions. Aim for al dente, because you want your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad to have a subtle chew. Once it’s done, drain and immediately rinse the pasta under cold water. This halts the cooking process and prevents sticking, while also keeping the texture perfect for a cold salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While your pasta cooks, quickly steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets. About 1-2 minutes is all you need—they should turn a bright, vibrant green and remain crisp-tender. Rinse the broccoli in cold water to stop the cooking and lock in that gorgeous color and crunch. Nobody wants mushy broccoli!
Step 3: Toss the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta, cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. You’ll notice right away how lively and inviting your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad looks with all those colors mingling together.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. The mustard and lemon juice really make the flavors pop and keep the dressing from feeling too heavy, while the yogurt adds a fresh, slightly tangy note.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Chill
Pour the dressing over your salad base and gently toss until everything’s evenly coated. Try not to overmix—the ingredients should stay somewhat distinct. Cover your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle and the salad firm up, making each bite more delicious.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Garnishes
Top your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad with a sprinkle of extra cheddar, crisp bacon bits, or a handful of toasted sunflower seeds for crunch. A few fresh basil or parsley leaves also brighten up the salad and add an herbal aroma that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Serve this salad as a star at any potluck, picnic, or BBQ spread. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider offering some grilled vegetables or a bowl of soup alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad at a party, scoop it into individual cups or mason jars for easy, grab-and-go portions. Or, mound it on a bed of leafy greens for a colorful lunch plate. For a family dinner, simply heap it into a large, shallow platter to show off all the vibrant ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen after a night in the fridge.
Freezing
This salad isn’t suited for freezing; the creamy dressing can separate and the veggies may lose their crispness. For the best texture and taste, enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad freshly made or within a couple of days.
Reheating
No need to reheat—this dish is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you’d like, you can let it sit at room temp for about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and let the flavors shine.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a wonderful time-saver and gives your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad extra savoriness and tenderness. Just shred or cube it and mix it in as directed.
What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Diced bell peppers, sliced cucumbers, or even a handful of baby spinach are tasty additions and add more color and nutrition to your salad.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt or sour cream in the dressing. You’ll still get all the creamy goodness you crave!
Is this salad gluten-free?
It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double check that your Dijon mustard and other condiments are certified gluten-free. The result is just as delicious.
How far ahead can I make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?
You can prepare it up to a day in advance. In fact, giving it a few hours in the fridge lets the flavors meld. Just give it a gentle toss before serving, and if it looks a little dry, add a splash of extra yogurt or mayo.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s every bit as satisfying as it is simple, Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it for every occasion—and don’t be surprised when the bowl comes back empty!
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Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad that’s perfect for picnics or as a refreshing lunch option. This salad combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy dressing for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 3 cups cooked rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Lightly steam or blanch the broccoli until crisp-tender. Rinse with cold water and drain.
- Mix Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked crumbled bacon or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Can be made up to a day ahead.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (with some boiling/steaming)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
