Are you tired of the same old boring salads? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of 18 mouthwatering chicken pasta salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Mediterranean flavors to spicy buffalo twists, and from creamy ranch dressings to tangy Thai peanut sauces, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, these flavorful chicken pasta salads have got you covered. With ingredients like juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, savory cheeses, and aromatic herbs, each salad is a perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with chicken, pasta, feta cheese, and olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, olives, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad with Bacon
A satisfying summer salad that combines the creaminess of ranch dressing with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a bed of pasta and chicken. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, peas and carrots, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the creamy mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Get ready to kick your pasta game up a notch with this spicy buffalo chicken pasta salad! This flavorful and refreshing dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie, or rotini)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp. ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until the chicken is fully coated.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and blue cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta Salad with Dill
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this Greek-inspired dish combines the tanginess of yogurt and dill with the creaminess of chicken. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, pasta, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken-pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this salad is a quick assemble-and-refrigerate recipe.
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad with Corn and Black Beans
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, sweet corn, and smoky BBQ sauce with the creaminess of black beans. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, corn kernels, black beans, and BBQ sauce.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of pesto, grilled chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes with al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad with Spinach
This refreshing pasta salad combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderness of chicken, all wrapped up with a bed of crisp spinach. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add cooked chicken, pasta, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the tenderness of chicken. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, diced avocado, lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad with Crunchy Vegetables
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Thailand with a twist on traditional pasta salad. With its tangy peanut sauce, protein-packed chicken, and crunchy vegetables, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup mixed crunchy vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pasta, and crunchy vegetables.
4. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta Salad with Apples
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the flavors of honey mustard chicken, crisp apples, and springy pasta for a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard. Add chicken and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, chopped parsley, diced apple, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
A sweet and tangy take on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of balsamic glaze, grilled chicken, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture onto both sides of chicken breasts; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Toss pasta with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to pasta mixture.
7. Drizzle with remaining balsamic glaze and toss to combine.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tex-Mex Chicken Pasta Salad with Chipotle Dressing
Elevate your pasta salad game with this bold and flavorful Tex-Mex twist, featuring chipotle-spiced chicken and a tangy dressing that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp. chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. Grill or cook chicken until cooked through; chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a blender, combine lime juice, olive oil, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
5. Drizzle Chipotle Dressing over the top and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A light and refreshing summer salad that combines cooked chicken, pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. Grill or cook chicken breast until fully cooked, then let cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped chicken, cherry tomatoes, parsley, olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad with Cucumbers
This refreshing salad combines the creamy goodness of sesame dressing with the crunch of cucumbers, all on a bed of pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup sesame dressing
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, and sliced cucumbers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame dressing and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Pour the sesame dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Chicken Pasta Salad with Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until heated through.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy – creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil – with the comfort of chicken and pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and chopped basil.
4. Add the dressing to the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mango Curry Chicken Pasta Salad with Cashews
Mango Curry Chicken Pasta Salad with Cashews: A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this salad combines the warmth of curry spices with the natural sweetness of mangoes, all wrapped up in a bed of pasta and crunchy cashews.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. honey
– 1/2 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
– 2 tbsp. plain Greek yogurt (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together curry powder, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked chicken, mango, and cashews to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again to coat.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and a dollop of Greek yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Salad with Arugula
A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a light dinner or lunch, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Salad combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the peppiness of arugula.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, arugula, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game! This article features 18 mouthwatering chicken pasta salad recipes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes with feta and olives, to creamy ranch salads with bacon, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy buffalo, Greek yogurt-based, or BBQ-infused flavors, these recipes will keep you coming back for more. Each salad is packed with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a dash of creativity. So go ahead, get cooking, and treat yourself to a delicious chicken pasta salad!
