This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches!
I love how colorful it looks on the plate! Plus, it’s great for meal prep—just make it ahead, and you’re all set. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy and yummy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using elbow macaroni for a classic touch, but cavatappi offers a fun twist with its spirals. If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta, which is widely available nowadays.
Chicken: Grilled chicken adds a nice smokiness, while rotisserie chicken saves time. Leftover chicken or even turkey works great too! For a vegetarian version, you can use chickpeas or tofu.
Bacon: Cooked bacon is a key flavor, but you could swap it for turkey bacon or omit it for a meat-free salad. If using bacon bits, check the label for gluten-free options.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives this salad great flavor. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses for variety. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re dairy-free!
Dressing: The combination of mayo and sour cream creates a creamy base, but Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier choice. For a lighter dressing, use a vinaigrette instead!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly sets the stage for a great salad! You want it to be al dente so it stays firm when mixed with other ingredients. Here’s how:
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-10 minutes.
- Test it a minute or two before it’s “done” to get that perfect texture.
- Drain the pasta, and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Remember, al dente pasta will hold up better in your salad, making every bite enjoyable!
How to Make Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Salad Base:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (grilled or rotisserie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. With simple steps and quick prep time, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, diced celery, and cubed cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed. This is where all the flavors start to come together!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing is what will make your salad creamy and delicious!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything until the pasta and other ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Taste it and see if you want to add more salt or pepper for extra flavor.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps all the flavors mix together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, take it out and give it a gentle toss. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top for a lovely touch. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Chicken Club Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni and cavatappi are great choices, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook it until al dente for the best texture in the salad!
Can I Substitute the Chicken?
Yes, this salad is very flexible! If you don’t have cooked chicken, you could use turkey, or even omit the meat for a vegetarian version. Tofu or chickpeas are fantastic protein alternatives!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some ingredients may settle. If it looks a little dry, add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chicken club pasta salad is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it a day in advance—just be sure to cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. The flavors will enhance as it chills!
