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A close-up shot of the chicken pasta salad on a fork, showing the creamy dressing coating the rotini pasta, chicken, and bits of celery.

Chicken Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Creamy & Refreshing Recipe

An easy, crowd-pleasing Chicken Pasta Salad featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and crisp vegetables in a rich and tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a light lunch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb rotini pasta or other short pasta like fusilli or penne
  • 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 2 stalks celery finely diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn thawed or drained
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, celery, red onion, corn, parsley, and dill.
  4. Gently stir until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated in the dressing.
  5. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. If the salad seems a little dry after being refrigerated, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or extra mayonnaise to restore its creaminess.
Ingredient Tip: Using a rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time on meal prep.