This Creamy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a fun mix of pasta, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, all coated in a tasty creamy dressing. Perfect for lunch or a picnic!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together! Just cook your pasta, toss in the goodies, and you’re set. I love having it ready in the fridge for easy lunches during the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini or bowtie pasta for this salad because they hold the dressing well. If you prefer whole grain pasta or gluten-free options, those work nicely too!
Chicken: For the chicken, leftover cooked chicken is perfect. If you’re short on time, a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves preparation. For a vegetarian twist, swap it with chickpeas or tofu.
Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor and crunch. However, turkey bacon or even crispy tofu can be a healthy alternative if you want to lighten the dish.
Mayonnaise: The dressing mainly uses mayonnaise, which gives creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can mix it with a little mayonnaise for flavor.
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness. Feel free to substitute with bell peppers, spinach, or whatever veggies you enjoy or have on hand!
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Creating the perfect creamy dressing is key to making this pasta salad delicious. It must balance flavors and textures. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Start with mayonnaise and sour cream as your base. This combination gives a creamy texture.
- Add Dijon mustard for tanginess. It brightens the dressing and enhances the flavors.
- Mix in lemon juice for a little acidity. This helps cut through the creaminess.
- Don’t forget garlic powder for added depth. It gives great flavor without being overwhelming.
- Always taste and adjust! After mixing the dressing, taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
Refrigerate the dressing before adding to the pasta; this allows the flavors to blend. You’ll love the results! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and requires at least 1 hour for chilling in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the rotini or bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside to let it drain completely.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced or shredded chicken, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. Gently stir everything together until combined.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the magic that ties all the ingredients together!
4. Combine the Pasta and Dressing:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. It’s all about creating the flavor you love!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the salad is chilled, give it a quick stir and serve it in bowls or on plates. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Chicken Club Pasta Salad as a main dish or a side at your next picnic or gathering!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini and bowtie pasta work well, feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options. Just ensure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta salad a day ahead! Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, you might want to add a little more dressing before serving to keep it creamy.
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Bacon?
If you prefer to skip the bacon, you can use crispy turkey bacon for a lighter option, or try chickpeas or diced avocado for added protein and creaminess without the meat!
