Ah, the joys of summertime and backyard barbecues! One of my all-time favorite recipes that brings a smile to my face—and a few chuckles, too—is my Chicken Club Pasta Salad. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was having friends over for a casual get-together, and I thought, “What could be more fun than a pasta salad that combines all the goodness of a classic club sandwich?”
This salad is not just any salad; it’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that comes together in a flash and requires little more than some good ingredients and a bit of mixing? Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just want a delicious meal prep option for the week, this Chicken Club Pasta Salad will keep you coming back for more.
What’s in Chicken Club Pasta Salad?
Let me give you the scoop on what makes this pasta salad so irresistible! Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect blend of flavor and texture.
Elbow Macaroni (or Cavatappi Pasta): This pasta provides a lovely base, soaking up all the delicious dressing. I usually go with elbow macaroni because it’s classic, but cavatappi’s twists and turns are pretty fun, too!
Cooked Chicken: I love using diced rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. It’s juicy and tender, making it the perfect protein for this dish.
Bacon: Because, let’s be honest—everything is better with bacon! The crumbled bits add a crunchy, savory element that takes this salad over the top.
Cherry Tomatoes: These beauties add a pop of color and a fresh sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a must for that sharp, tangy kick. I prefer it diced, but feel free to use shredded if you’d like.
Green Bell Pepper: Diced for crunchy freshness. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, you could go for a red or yellow bell pepper, too!
Red Onion: Finely chopped, it gives the salad a zesty bite. Just don’t go too heavy on it unless you’re a fan of strong flavors.
Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base of our dressing. You could use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative if you’re feeling adventurous.
Sour Cream: Adds a nice tanginess that complements the mayo and rounds out the dressing beautifully.
Dijon Mustard: A little zing goes a long way! It adds depth to the dressing and works wonders with the other flavors.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed if you can! It brightens everything up and gives the salad that extra zing.
Salt and Pepper: The essential seasoning; adjust to your taste!
Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top adds a lovely fresh touch and looks beautiful, too!
Is Chicken Club Pasta Salad Good for You?
When you think of pasta salad, healthy might not be the first word that comes to mind, but let’s break it down!
Pasta: While it’s not low-carb, using a whole-grain or legume-based pasta can add more fiber to your meal.
Chicken: A lean protein source, it provides essential nutrients while keeping you full.
Bacon: Yes, it’s crispy and delicious, but don’t forget to enjoy it in moderation! A couple of strips adds a wonderful flavor without going overboard.
Vegetables: The cherry tomatoes and bell pepper pack in vitamins and antioxidants, making this salad a bit healthier.
So, while this pasta dish is undeniably indulgent, the presence of veggies and protein gives it a redeeming quality. Just keep those portion sizes in check!
Ingredients
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or cavatappi pasta)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
– 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced
– 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
This recipe serves about 6 hungry people, perfect for a small gathering or as a great meal-prep option for the week!
How to Make Chicken Club Pasta Salad?
Ready to whip up this creamy, crunchy delight? Here’s how to make it:
1. **Cook the pasta:** Prepare the elbow macaroni (or cavatappi) according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and rinse it under cold water. This helps cool it down and stop the cooking process.
2. **Mix the ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, green bell pepper, and red onion.
3. **Make the dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. **Combine it all:** Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture. Toss gently until everything is thoroughly coated.
5. **Taste and adjust:** Give it a taste, add more salt or pepper if needed, and get it just right for your palate.
6. **Let it chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
7. **Serve and enjoy:** Before serving, stir it well and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!
Mixing It Up: Tips and Variations!
There are endless ways to customize this Chicken Club Pasta Salad. Here are some fun ideas to switch it up:
– **Add more veggies:** Toss in some diced cucumbers, peas, or even corn for extra crunch and sweetness.
– **Swap the dressing:** If you want to make it lighter, use a vinaigrette instead of mayo and sour cream. I’ve had great success with a lemon vinaigrette, too!
– **Switch up the protein:** How about leftover turkey, ham, or even a veggie option? You could use chickpeas for a fun twist!
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Club Pasta Salad! It’s a dish that never fails to impress and satisfy. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers—if there are any! After you make it, let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
