Chicken Club Pasta Salad
A delightful pasta salad combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for warm days and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 2 cups Cooked, diced chicken breast Ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before dicing.
Starch/Pasta
- 2 cups Cooked pasta (rotini or penne) Cook al dente and drain.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved before mixing.
Liquids/Dairy
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with low-fat mayo.
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt For creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice Adds zest.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on preference.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup Crispy bacon (crumbled) Cook until crispy.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and chopped romaine lettuce into the bowl with chicken. Stir gently.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the bowl along with shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir to ensure everything is well-coated.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Notes
Try adding diced avocado or sliced cucumbers for extra freshness. Best served chilled.