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Chicken Pasta Salad

Creamy chicken pasta salad with rotini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh parsley served in a large white bowl

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This Chicken Pasta Salad is a creamy, refreshing, and satisfying dish perfect for warm weather days, potlucks, and easy meal prep. Tender pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp vegetables are tossed in a tangy homemade dressing for a complete meal in one bowl.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz rotini, penne, or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a full boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold running water for 60 seconds, and let drain completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the fully cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and celery to the bowl.
  4. Fold everything together gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
  5. Fold in the fresh chopped parsley.
  6. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar before serving cold.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Use it straight from the store for quick prep.
  • Make sure pasta is fully cooled and drained before mixing with dressing to prevent a watery salad.
  • For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise entirely with plain Greek yogurt.
  • If making ahead, hold back the fresh parsley and stir it in right before serving for best color and flavor.
  • If the salad looks dry after refrigerating overnight, stir in one to two tablespoons of mayonnaise and a small splash of apple cider vinegar before serving.

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