This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a fun and tasty mix of flavors! With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for lunch or a picnic.
The dressing ties everything together, making each bite super yummy. I love packing this for a quick meal—it’s like a club sandwich, but in salad form! 🥗
Plus, it’s really easy to whip up! Just cook the pasta, toss in the ingredients, and you’re ready to enjoy a delightfully satisfying dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rotini or cavatappi for their fun shapes that hold dressing well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using quinoa pasta or chickpea pasta instead.
Chicken: Cooked chicken makes this salad hearty. You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or even swap in turkey if you like!
Bacon: For that salty crunch, go for crispy bacon. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, too. Or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version!
Cucumber: English cucumbers have a nice crunch without many seeds. If they’re not available, any variety will do. Just remove seeds if they’re too watery.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. Monterey Jack is a great substitute if you want something milder, or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Ensure the Pasta Doesn’t Get Soggy?
To keep your pasta salad fresh and not soggy, follow these steps:
- Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will soften further when mixed with the dressing.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water right after draining. This stops the cooking process and cools it quickly.
- Make sure to toss the pasta with the dressing only when it’s completely cool—it helps prevent absorbing too much moisture.
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to mix beautifully without making the pasta mushy.
How to Make Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Proteins:
- 8 ounces rotini or cavatappi pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Vegetables and Cheese:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Club Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes to have this refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set the cooled pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, cheddar cheese, and red onion. Give everything a gentle mix to combine well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Dress the Pasta Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mix. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing—be careful not to mash the ingredients!
5. Chill and Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the salad and add more salt and pepper if needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors come together nicely.
6. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice burst of color. Serve the pasta salad cold and enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great in this pasta salad. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad to ensure even distribution.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will add a tangy flavor and creaminess. You can also try a combination of sour cream and a little olive oil for a similar texture and taste.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Chicken Club Pasta Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and can last for up to 3 days. Just give it a good toss before serving, as some of the dressing may settle!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even olives based on your preference. Just remember to chop them small to maintain a good balance of flavors and textures.
