Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Seasoned chicken, broccoli, golden raisins, celery, and a wonderful creamy dressing come together to make this awesome Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful and vibrant salad. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition and delightful textures that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Nutrient-Rich: Featuring broccoli and chicken, it’s a balanced option that offers vitamins and protein.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main course; it fits into various meals throughout the week.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Extra-large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly until al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta efficiently while rinsing under cold water.
• Extra-large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all the ingredients together without making a mess.

Ingredients

For this delightful Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, you will need:

• 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
• 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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In an extra-large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Serve or Chill

Enjoy right away or refrigerate until ready to serve for best flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether served at a picnic, barbecue, or as part of a family meal, it pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy it chilled on its own for a refreshing lunch option.

At Summer Gatherings

• Serve it alongside grilled meats for a delightful summer feast.

In Lunch Boxes

• Pack individual portions in lunch boxes for an easy and nutritious meal on the go.

As Party Appetizers

• Spoon into small cups for bite-sized appetizers at parties or potlucks.

With Fresh Greens

• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and crunch.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

To elevate your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors and creates a refreshing dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli florets and high-quality chicken for the best taste and texture.

• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of lemon juice or some chicken broth to lighten it up.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Pairing your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Veggies: Mixed seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add smokiness and flavor.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness and balances the savory elements of the pasta salad.

3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing on your plate.

4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers contrasting textures while maintaining a light profile.

5. Caprese Skewers: Spear cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on toothpicks for an easy-to-eat treat.

6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness and pair well with the creamy pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the rinse – Not rinsing the pasta after cooking can lead to a gummy texture. Always rinse with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.

• Overcooking the broccoli – Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and crunch. Steam or blanch it just until it’s bright green and tender-crisp.

• Ignoring measurements – Adding too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the balance of flavors. Stick closely to the measurements provided for best results.

• Using stale ingredients – Fresh ingredients are key for flavor. Check that your mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings are fresh before adding them to the salad.

• Not letting it chill – Serving right away might mean missing out on the best flavor. Allow your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Not recommended as freezing can change the texture of the ingredients.
• If you must freeze, separate components (pasta, chicken, and veggies) before freezing.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta in Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can substitute Radiatore pasta with any pasta shape you prefer such as rotini, penne, or fusilli.

How can I customize my Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans based on your preference.

Is Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad healthy?

This salad is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli. It’s a balanced dish when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made a day ahead as flavors meld together during chilling.

What should I serve with Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

This pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish for a light meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick meals throughout the year, this recipe offers plenty of room for customization. Try different vegetables or nuts to make it your own!