Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Seasoned chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy dressing come together in this delightful Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. It’s a perfect dish for summer picnics, family gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of seasoned chicken and crunchy vegetables creates a delicious taste that appeals to everyone.
• Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this pasta salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, this salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, it’s a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or substitute based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad efficiently, having the right tools is key.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Extra-large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain cooked pasta easily without losing any pieces, making cleanup a breeze.
• Extra-large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth and creamy dressing by blending all components thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 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

For the Dressing

• 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

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
1. Add the Radiatore pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water.
3. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In an extra-large bowl:
1. Whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, raisins, celery, almonds, and scallions to the dressing:
1. Toss everything together until well combined and coated.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad right away or refrigerate until ready to serve. It’s great chilled!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether at a summer barbecue or a family gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a hearty meal that balances flavors and textures.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy dressing and enhance the dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Complement with roasted chicken for an easy yet satisfying meal.
• Offer alongside burgers or hot dogs at cookouts for a refreshing contrast.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb option that’s perfect for warm weather.

In a Picnic Platter

• Include in a picnic spread with fruits, cheeses, and crackers for a delightful outdoor feast.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Making the perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose al dente pasta – Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture in the salad.
• Adjust dressing consistency – If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of broth or lemon juice to achieve the desired creaminess.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables – Adding ingredients like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes can enhance flavor and color.
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference before serving.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and smoky, grilled corn adds a fun crunch and complements the salad nicely.
2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers provide a refreshing bite that balances the creaminess of the salad.
3. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a savory touch that pairs well with pasta salads.
4. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness, making it an ideal counterpart to your dish.
5. Roasted Veggies – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and earthiness, creating a colorful plate.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned wedges add crunch and heartiness, making them perfect for dipping into leftover dressing.
7. Hummus with Veggie Sticks – A healthy option that provides crunch and flavor without overwhelming the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad can be fun and easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions and cook until al dente.
• Skipping the rinse: Failing to rinse the pasta under cold water can leave it sticky. Rinse thoroughly to prevent clumping.
• Not seasoning enough: A bland salad is unappealing. Don’t forget to adjust the seasonings in the dressing to enhance flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted broccoli or stale nuts can affect taste and texture. Always check your ingredients before use.
• Assembling too early: If you mix everything together too soon, the pasta may absorb the dressing and become dry. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the main compartment of your fridge for best results.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad.

Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and nutrition.

How do I make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegan mayonnaise.

Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.

What is the best type of pasta for this salad?

Radiatore is great due to its shape, but any short pasta like rotini or penne works well too.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is both delicious and versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep, it offers room for customization with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try—you’ll love the combination of flavors and textures!