Introduction
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful, wholesome dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta with a creamy, flavorful dressing. This salad is a great choice for potlucks, meal prep, or a light and refreshing meal. The combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and delicious. The versatility of this salad allows for various add-ins and dressing choices, making it easy to customize to personal preferences. Whether served warm or cold, this salad is a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey (for a slightly sweet touch, optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes.
- Drain and immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- If not already cooked, season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and honey.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lemon juice for tanginess or honey for a touch of sweetness.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, cheddar cheese, and black olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Variation
- Healthier Version: Swap the mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette-based dressing for a lighter option.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add crumbled feta or shredded parmesan for an extra cheesy taste.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick of heat.
- Crunchy Additions: Toss in nuts like sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts for an added crunch.
- Protein Swap: Use grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source.
Cooking Note
- Make sure the pasta is well-drained before adding it to the salad to prevent excess moisture.
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30-60 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix it in right before serving to avoid soggy pasta.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a light lunch or dinner.
- Pair with a side of crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Enjoy alongside grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.
- Pack it for meal prep lunches throughout the week.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken.
- Chop all vegetables uniformly for an even texture in every bite.
- Rinse pasta under cold water to prevent sticking and to cool it down for the salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a little extra dressing or olive oil before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~400 per serving
- Protein: ~28g
- Sodium: ~450mg
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld. Keep the dressing separate and mix before serving if making it a day in advance.
What type of pasta is best for this salad?
Short pasta varieties like rotini, bowtie, or penne work best because they hold onto the dressing well.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to blanch and drain it well to avoid excess water in the salad.
What dressing alternatives can I use?
You can substitute the creamy dressing with a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and herbs.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas work well as alternatives.
How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook it al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Also, avoid overdressing the salad right away—add more dressing if needed before serving.
How long can this salad be stored?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt or a vinaigrette-based dressing.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a perfect combination of hearty, healthy, and satisfying ingredients. Whether for a family meal, a picnic, or a meal-prep staple, this salad delivers on flavor, nutrition, and versatility. The creamy, tangy dressing enhances the textures and flavors of the pasta, chicken, and vegetables, making every bite delicious. With various customizations available, you can tweak this salad to suit your taste and dietary needs. Try this recipe for a refreshing, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy!