If you are on the lookout for a dish that combines hearty comfort with fresh crunch and every bite bursting with flavour, this Chicken Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, crisp veggies, crispy bacon, and a luscious, creamy dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a picnic, or meal prep for the week, this salad hits all the right notes — it’s creamy, satisfying, colourful, and incredibly versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this salad is in its simple, familiar ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavour, texture, and colour. From the chewy pasta base to the crunchy vegetables and that irresistible creamy dressing, every component shines individually and in harmony.
- 500g macaroni or elbow pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy dressing and blend everything together.
- 1 tbsp salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water to enhance the pasta’s flavour from the inside out.
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or finely chopped): Adds protein and heartiness — cooked chicken works best to soak up the dressing.
- 150g chopped bacon: For smoky crunch that adds a flavor punch and delightful texture contrast.
- 2 finely sliced celery stalks: Bring fresh crispness and a subtle, clean flavour that balances the richness.
- 1 finely diced red capsicum (bell pepper): A pop of vibrant colour and gentle sweetness that’s irresistibly fresh.
- 2 finely sliced green onions: For mild oniony sharpness that brightens every bite.
- 2 medium shredded carrots: Adds sweet earthiness and an eye-catching orange hue.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, or Colby): Creamy, melty, and adds extra flavour depth.
- 2 small/medium avocados (optional, bite-sized pieces): For buttery creaminess and a subtle richness that elevates the salad.
- 1 cup mayonnaise (whole egg preferred): The creamy base of the dressing that binds everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat or low fat): Adds tangy smoothness and balances the mayo’s richness.
- 3 tbsp cider vinegar: Provides brightness and a slight tart kick to refresh the palate.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Introduces a gentle spicy depth for complexity in the dressing.
- 4 tsp sugar: Balances acidity and enhances all the other flavours subtly.
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a punch of savory warmth.
- 2 tsp salt: Brings out maximum flavour throughout the salad.
- 1 tsp pepper: For subtle heat and aromatics that finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, seasoning generously with salt to ensure your pasta is well-flavored from the start. Cook the macaroni or elbow pasta according to the packet instructions until just tender. Drain thoroughly and allow it to cool completely — this prevents the salad from getting soggy and keeps every bite perfectly al dente.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination creates the stunningly creamy and tangy dressing that makes this dish unforgettable. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes so the flavours meld and develop their full potential.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Place the chopped bacon in a cold non-stick skillet, then turn the heat to medium-high. Cooking bacon from cold lets the fat render slowly, helping it crisp beautifully. Fry until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. The bacon adds a smoky crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the salad.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, celery, red capsicum, green onions, shredded carrots, shredded cheese, and avocado pieces if using. Reserve a small amount of bacon for garnish and add the rest to the bowl. Pour over the creamy dressing, then toss everything well to make sure every morsel is coated with that luscious dressing.
Step 5: Let It Marinate
Set your salad aside for about 20 minutes before serving, allowing the flavours to mingle and the textures to soften slightly for optimum deliciousness. When ready, transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon on top for that last irresistible touch of crunch and flavour.
How to Serve Chicken Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill on top to brighten the dish with green freshness and dimension. Extra crispy bacon bits and a dusting of freshly ground pepper can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This chicken pasta salad pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides such as crusty garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Together, these sides create a balanced meal that’s perfect for summer lunches or festive gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad in individual mason jars for picnic-ready portions, or on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves to add even more crunch. You can also stuff it into pita pockets or tortillas for portable, handheld meals that are just as satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Flavours actually deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving to revive the creamy texture.
Freezing
Because of the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, freezing is not recommended for this salad; it can alter the texture and taste unfavourably. For best results, enjoy fresh or within the refrigerated storage window.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this salad. If preferred warm, let the salad sit at room temperature, and enjoy it as is. Heating will separate the dressing and soften the bite you love about this dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni or elbow pasta works best for holding the dressing, feel free to use fusilli, rotini, or penne for a different look and texture.
Is there a way to make the dressing lighter?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat mayonnaise. This will reduce the calorie content while keeping the creamy consistency.
Can I prepare this salad the night before?
Definitely! In fact, preparing it a few hours or the night before lets the flavours meld perfectly. Just add avocado and bacon garnish right before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian twist, try crispy roasted chickpeas or smoked tofu cubes. They add texture and smoky flavour without using meat.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Adding avocado just before serving is best, but if you need to prepare ahead, toss avocado pieces lightly with lemon or lime juice to slow browning.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe is undoubtedly a keeper, blending comfort and freshness in every delightful bite. It’s so easy to prepare but feels special enough to impress guests or simply brighten your weekly meal plan. Dive in and enjoy all the creamy, crunchy goodness — I promise it will become a beloved favourite in your kitchen!
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Chicken Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and hearty Chicken Pasta Salad with a creamy, tangy dressing, perfect for gatherings or meal prep. This recipe combines tender cooked chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing mixed with mayonnaise and sour cream to create a satisfying dish that can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Pasta & Proteins
- 500g / 1 lb macaroni / elbow pasta (or other pasta of choice)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
- 150g / 5 oz bacon, chopped
Vegetables
- 2 celery stalks, finely sliced
- 1 red capsicum / bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- 2 small/medium avocados, cut into bite size pieces (optional)
Cheese & Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, Colby)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (whole egg best)
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat or low fat)
Seasonings & Others
- 1 tbsp salt (to cook pasta)
- 3 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 tsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt (for dressing)
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let the dressing rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook bacon: Place the chopped bacon in a cold non-stick skillet. Turn the stove to medium-high heat and cook the bacon until golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, place the cooled cooked pasta along with shredded chicken, celery, red capsicum, green onions, shredded carrots, shredded cheese, and avocados if using. Reserve some cooked bacon for garnish.
- Add dressing and toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Chill and serve: Set the salad aside for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to develop. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with reserved crispy bacon. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For best flavor, bring to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Optionally add avocado for creaminess and a fresh texture.
- Use whole egg mayonnaise for richer flavor.
- Cooking bacon from a cold skillet ensures even crispiness.
- This salad keeps well and is ideal for meal prep or parties.
- Bringing the salad to room temperature before serving enhances the flavors.
