Seasoned chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy dressing unite to create a delightful Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or potlucks, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it a great choice for busy days.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of seasoned chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a holiday gathering, this salad fits right into any menu.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Extra-large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta until perfectly al dente.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly and effectively.
- Extra-large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Ensures the dressing ingredients are blended smoothly.
Ingredients
Seasoned chicken, broccoli, golden raisins, celery, and a wonderful creamy dressing come together to make this awesome Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. A total crowd pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings or all year long!
For the Salad
- 1 pound (4 cups) dried Radiatore pasta
- 1 pound cooked seasoned chicken breast, diced into small cubes (about 2 cups)
- 3 cups small broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds
- 4 scallions, diced
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil; cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In an extra-large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until combined and smooth.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Add in the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, raisins, celery, almonds, and scallions; toss to combine and coat evenly with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve or Chill
Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to serve. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad tastes great chilled!
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to please your guests. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Dish
- Hearty Meal: This pasta salad can stand alone as a fulfilling main dish, especially for lunch or dinner. It’s packed with protein and veggies.
As a Side Dish
- Perfect Pairing: Serve it alongside grilled meats or fish. Its creamy texture complements the charred flavors of grilled foods beautifully.
At Potlucks
- Crowd Favorite: Bring this pasta salad to potlucks or gatherings. Its colorful ingredients make it visually appealing, and it’s sure to be a hit among guests.
For Meal Prep
- Easy Lunches: Prepare individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld wonderfully when stored in the refrigerator.
On a Picnic
- Portable Delight: Pack it in a cooler for an outdoor picnic. This salad is best enjoyed cold, making it ideal for warm days outside.
How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Bold seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Enhancing the flavor will elevate the overall dish.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen for better texture and taste.
- Add crunch: Incorporate additional nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Customize dressing: Feel free to mix Greek yogurt into the dressing for a lighter version while maintaining creaminess.
- Garnish creatively: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for added freshness and color.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Complement your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad with these delightful side dishes that balance its rich flavors and textures.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender, adding smoky flavor.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic breadsticks serve as a perfect accompaniment, providing a satisfying contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad enhances your meal’s sweetness while offering a light finish.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh bite.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is always a crowd-pleaser during summer gatherings.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips add an enjoyable texture that pairs well with pasta salads.
- Deviled Eggs: Creamy deviled eggs bring classic comfort food to your table without overshadowing the main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the creaminess of the pasta salad perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente for the best results.
- Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can cause it to stick together. Rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent clumping.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your dressing properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed before mixing everything together.
- Using Old Ingredients: Using stale or expired ingredients like nuts or dried fruits can impact freshness. Always check the dates on items like almonds and raisins.
- Not Allowing Time to Chill: Serving immediately without chilling may not allow flavors to meld. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving for optimal taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing the container.
Freezing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to ingredients like mayonnaise and celery which may change texture upon thawing.
- If you must freeze, do so without dressing; add fresh dressing after thawing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through but not overcooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?
Yes! You can add different vegetables, swap proteins, or use alternative dressings based on your preferences.
How do I make my Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad healthier?
Consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and adding more veggies for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
What types of chicken work best in this recipe?
Grilled or rotisserie chicken adds great flavor. You can also use leftover chicken from other meals for convenience.
Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a family dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love!
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for any occasion! This vibrant salad features tender seasoned chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. In just 20 minutes, you can create a crowd-pleasing meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a hearty lunch option, this pasta salad combines protein-rich chicken and fiber-filled broccoli to keep you satisfied and energized. Impress your guests and elevate your gatherings with this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried Radiatore pasta
- 1 pound cooked seasoned chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups small broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta in boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; drizzle with olive oil.
- 2. In an extra-large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Add the cooked pasta to the dressing along with chicken, broccoli, raisins, celery, almonds, and scallions; toss to combine.
- 4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Customize with additional vegetables or nuts to suit your taste. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Allowing the salad to chill enhances its flavors.
