Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Seasoned chicken, broccoli, golden raisins, celery, and a wonderful creamy dressing come together to make this awesome Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual family dinners. Its combination of flavors and textures will please any crowd, whether enjoyed in the summer sun or on a cozy evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish; it’s suitable for any occasion from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, this salad is both hearty and healthy.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this pasta salad in advance and refrigerate it until serving time.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures everything is mixed perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Extra-large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly to al dente perfection.
• Colander: Helps drain the cooked pasta quickly and easily without hassle.
• Extra-large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures your dressing is smooth and well combined for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Seasoned chicken, broccoli, golden raisins, celery, and a wonderful creamy dressing come together to make this awesome Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. A total crowd pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings or all year long!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound (4 cups) dried Radiatore pasta
– 1 pound cooked seasoned chicken breast, diced into small cubes (about 2 cups)
– 3 cups small broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 3/4 cup sliced almonds
– 4 scallions, diced
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3/4 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil; cook pasta until al dente according to package directions.
* Drain the pasta using a colander.
* Rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
* Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In an extra-large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

Add in the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, raisins, celery, almonds, and scallions; toss to combine and coat evenly.

Step 4: Serve or Refrigerate

Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to serve.

This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Serving Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is simple and can be tailored to suit various occasions. This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with other meals, making it a great choice for gatherings or casual dinners.

As a Main Dish

• This pasta salad can be a filling main course for lunch or dinner. Its combination of protein and veggies makes it hearty enough to satisfy.

At Summer Gatherings

• Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is sure to impress guests with its vibrant colors and flavors.

For Meal Prep

• Make a big batch at the beginning of the week. It stores well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold throughout the week for easy lunches.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. The creamy dressing complements many dishes and adds a refreshing crunch.

With Extra Toppings

• Customize your serving with additional toppings like crumbled feta cheese or extra sliced almonds for added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is always a hit, consider these tips for perfecting the recipe every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality chicken will elevate the salad’s taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing it in. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey according to your preferences.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Consider Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta if needed for dietary restrictions.
• Pair with Protein: Add chickpeas or beans for additional protein if you want to enhance this dish further.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled on skewers adds smoky flavor that aligns perfectly with the salad.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta salad.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a crunchy side that balances the creaminess of the pasta dish.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread serves as a delightful carb option that rounds out your meal nicely.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and variety, making it a perfect complement during summer gatherings.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze are bite-sized delights that pair beautifully.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy pasta salad.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make an appealing side that enhances visual appeal on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can make or break your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the cooling step: Rinsing the pasta under cold water is essential. It stops the cooking process and helps maintain the pasta’s texture.

• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients like broccoli and chicken enhance flavor. Always check for freshness before adding them to your salad.

• Not measuring dressing ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure a balanced flavor. Too much or too little dressing can overpower or underwhelm the salad.

• Overmixing the salad: Gently toss your ingredients to avoid mushiness. Overmixing can break down the pasta and vegetables, ruining the dish’s texture.

• Neglecting seasoning: Tasting as you go is crucial. Seasoning at each step helps bring out flavors and makes your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad more enjoyable.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; however, some texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between sessions until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until serving time.

What variations can I try with Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or different nuts for added crunch and flavor.

How do I ensure my Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad stays fresh?

Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and consume it within 3–4 days for best quality.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While Radiatore works well, any short pasta like penne or fusilli can be used for delicious results.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeals to everyone. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. Try making this refreshing salad for your next gathering or as a satisfying meal prep option!