Craving a light yet satisfying meal that's perfect for a picnic, potluck, or a quick weeknight dinner? Look no further than this delicious and easy chicken pasta salad! This vibrant dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. It's the perfect balance of savory and refreshing, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times; this chicken pasta salad is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to be both flavorful and adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your taste buds desire. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process outlined below to make your own delicious chicken pasta salad.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 1 whole medium
- Onion: 1 whole (half used)
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Celery: 2 sprigs + 3 sticks
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Pasta: 200 grams
- Peas: 3/4 cup
- Carrots: 2
- Green pepper: 1/2
- Serrano pepper: 1
- Red pepper: 1/2
- Purple onion: 1/2
- Cream (for tacos): 1/2 cup
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Water: 1.5 liters
- Salt: to taste
- Bay leaves: 2
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth
- Boil chicken breast in 1.5 liters of water. Once boiling, remove foam.
- Add onion, celery, garlic, and cilantro to the chicken broth for flavor. Cover and cook until chicken is done (approx. 45 mins).
- Once cooked, remove chicken and let cool. Shred the chicken.
Step 2. Cook Pasta and Vegetables
- Cook pasta in boiling water with onion, garlic, oil, salt, and bay leaves until al dente.
- Chop vegetables (green pepper, red pepper, celery, purple onion, cilantro, serrano pepper, carrots).
- Cook carrots and peas separately in boiling water with a little salt until tender.
Step 3. Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a bowl, combine cream, mayonnaise, black pepper, and mustard.
- Add shredded chicken to the cream mixture.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add chopped vegetables to the chicken mixture, stir until everything is well combined.
- Add cooked pasta and cilantro. Mix well.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- If you want a creamier salad, add more cream and mayonnaise.
- Omit serrano pepper for children.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this chicken pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. What kind of pasta works best?
Almost any pasta shape will work! Rotini, farfalle (bowties), or penne are all good choices because they hold the dressing well.
This delicious chicken pasta salad is the perfect recipe for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to summer gatherings. Its simple preparation and adaptable ingredients make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. So grab your favorite ingredients and enjoy this flavorful and refreshing meal!