Go Back

Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

Elina James
Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect easy lunch or dinner recipe loaded with tender chicken, creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and flavorful pasta. This cold pasta salad is great for meal prep, summer picnics, BBQ parties, potlucks, and quick family meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad

  • 3 cups cooked pasta rotini or penne work best
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
  • Prepare the Chicken Cook chicken breast until fully done and juicy. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken depending on your preference. Allow it to cool slightly before dicing or shredding into bite-sized pieces.
  • Chop the Vegetables Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and slice the celery. Fresh vegetables add wonderful crunch and freshness to the salad.
  • Make the Creamy Dressing In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  • Combine Everything In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chicken, vegetables, cheddar cheese, and parsley. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  • Chill Before Serving Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together beautifully and makes the salad extra delicious.
  • Serve and Enjoy Garnish with extra parsley or shredded cheese before serving for a fresh and colorful presentation.
Keyword Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad