Vibrant Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
A vibrant and refreshing chicken pasta salad combining tender cooked chicken, colorful vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt and cream cheese dressing, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a delicious, light meal or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and let it cool slightly to avoid wilting the fresh ingredients when combined.
- Prepare dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Whisk or stir these together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for a velvety texture.
- Add vegetables and chicken: Gently fold the diced cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, red onion, and bell pepper into the creamy mixture, evenly distributing all ingredients without breaking them down.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently toss all components to combine well, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy dressing and mixed in with the vegetables and chicken.
- Season and dress: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then add salt and pepper to taste. Toss lightly once more to incorporate the flavors evenly throughout the salad.
- Serve: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a bright, aromatic finish that complements the dish.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- You can substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist.
- Use tri-color pasta for added color and visual appeal.
- Feel free to add olives or avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Keywords: chicken pasta salad, creamy chicken salad, pasta salad recipe, healthy pasta salad, easy lunch recipes
Find it online: https://lucabites.com/vibrant-chicken-pasta-salad-recipe/
