This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and pasta, all tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
It’s like a club sandwich got a pasta makeover! I love making it ahead of time. It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a bit—who doesn’t love easy and delicious meals?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use any pasta you love! Penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta all work well. If you’re gluten-free, there are great alternatives made from rice or corn.
Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time, and I love how tender it is! If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that’s a perfect substitute too. You can use shredded or diced chicken depending on your preference.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a nice crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even bacon bits can work. For a vegetarian twist, try toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for that crunchy texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar stands out beautifully in this salad. If you prefer a different flavor, Monterey Jack or even a pepper jack for a bit of heat makes a tasty change. Vegan cheese is also an option for a dairy-free version.
Greek Yogurt: Adding Greek yogurt lightens up the dressing! You can use sour cream instead if that’s what you have. For a dairy-free option, a dairy-free yogurt will work just fine.
How Can I Make My Pasta Salad Extra Flavorful?
Getting the flavors just right is crucial for a delicious pasta salad. Here’s how to do it!
- Always cool your pasta before mixing it in. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy by absorbing too much dressing.
- Make sure to taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta. You can adjust the vinegar or mustard levels to suit your taste.
- Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes is essential. It allows the ingredients to blend and enhances the overall taste.
- Try adding a pinch of extra garlic powder or some chopped scallions for more flavor.
How to Make Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or more mayonnaise)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Altogether, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in! It’s a great make-ahead dish for picnics or gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the instructions on the package. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, diced green bell pepper, and cubed sharp cheddar cheese. Give it a good mix to combine all these tasty ingredients together!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until it’s all evenly coated with the delicious dressing. Don’t worry if it seems a bit saucy; it will soak in as it chills.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, give the salad a good stir and taste it. You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or dressing if needed. Serve the salad chilled, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with some fresh parsley or chives on top. Enjoy your Chicken Club Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use only Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Alternatively, you could use avocado or a vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based option!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken a bit.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad with additional ingredients like diced avocado, celery, or roasted red peppers. Just keep in mind that the more add-ins you have, the more dressing you may want to adjust as well!
