Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is one of my go-to dishes for busy weeknights. I love how it combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta into a delightful meal that is both satisfying and healthy. This salad is not only easy to make, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Whether I am preparing it for a family dinner or a potluck, it never fails to impress.
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
To make this delicious Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Pasta Ingredients:
- 2 cups of pasta (I usually use rotini or penne)
- 1 cup of broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup of cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
Cooking the pasta is the first step in making this salad. I always start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, I add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- This helps keep the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy in the salad.
Blanching the Broccoli
Next, I like to blanch the broccoli to keep its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the chopped broccoli.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green, then quickly transfer it to an ice bath.
- This method helps to maintain the nutrients and gives the broccoli a nice crunch.
Mixing the Salad Ingredients
Once the pasta and broccoli are ready, it’s time to mix everything together. In a large bowl, I combine the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- I find that using a large bowl makes it easier to mix everything without making a mess.
- Gently toss the ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Preparing the Dressing
The dressing is what brings this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad to life. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- I love the creaminess of the mayo combined with the tang of the yogurt and mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
Combining the Salad and Dressing
Now comes the best part! I pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is well-coated.
- I make sure not to over-mix, as I want to keep the ingredients intact.
Chilling the Salad
For the best flavor, I let the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- It also makes the salad refreshing and cool, perfect for a warm day.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes time to serve, I love to garnish the salad with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and some fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- This adds a pop of color and freshness.
- You can serve it as a main dish or as a side, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or sandwiches.
Storing Leftovers
If I happen to have leftovers, I always store the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It can last for about 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken after sitting.
Variations on Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
One of the things I love about this salad is how versatile it is. Here are some variations I enjoy:
- Add Nuts: For some crunch, I sometimes toss in slivered almonds or walnuts.
- Different Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Swap the Protein: You can use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Why I Love Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad
This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad has become a staple in my kitchen for many reasons. It is quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly satisfying.
- The combination of flavors and textures keeps it interesting.
- Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and veggies.
Whether I’m feeding my family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this salad always gets rave reviews. It’s a dish that combines convenience with deliciousness, making it a winner in my book.
If you are looking for a simple yet tasty meal, I highly recommend trying Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. With its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing, it is sure to become a favorite in your household too.
- The best part is that you can customize it to your liking.
- I would love to hear how you make your version, so feel free to share your ideas!