Chicken Pasta Salad
🥗 Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
The best of both worlds in one irresistible dish.
If you love chicken salad and you love pasta salad, why not bring them together into a single creamy, flavorful, crowd-pleasing combo? This Chicken Pasta Salad blends tender shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, crisp veggies, and small shell pasta—all tossed in a tangy-sweet mayo-based dressing. It’s the kind of side that steals the spotlight… and honestly, it’s hearty enough to make a satisfying lunch all on its own.
🧾 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 2 cups |
| Small shell pasta | 2 cups |
| Celery, chopped | 2 ribs |
| Red onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Cheddar cheese, grated | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt & black pepper | To taste |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to combine.
4. Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve—at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Serve chilled.
🌈 Make It Your Own
- Swap in small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni
- Toss in diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or cherry tomatoes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for easy prep
Creamy, crunchy, tangy, and satisfying—this is one salad that knows how to shine at potlucks, picnics, and Tuesday lunches alike.
