Description
A delicious and hearty Chicken Pasta Salad with a creamy dressing, combining tender pasta, shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, this salad is flavorful, easy to make, and serves 10.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 500g / 1 lb macaroni / elbow pasta (or other pasta of choice)
- 1 tbsp salt (to cook pasta)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
- 150g / 5 oz turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely sliced
- 1 red capsicum / bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded using a standard box grater
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, or Colby)
- 2 small/medium avocados, cut into bite-size pieces (optional)
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise (whole egg best)
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat or low fat)
- 3 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 tsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt, then cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Make dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook turkey bacon: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until browned and slightly crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Toss salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, celery, red capsicum, green onions, carrots, shredded cheese, and avocados if using. Reserve some turkey bacon for garnish. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Rest & serve: Let the salad rest for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with the reserved crispy turkey bacon, and serve at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure pasta is fully cooled before mixing into the salad to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Avocados are optional but add a creamy, rich texture that complements the salad.
- This salad keeps well for 3–4 days refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
- Adjust seasoning of the dressing to taste before tossing if desired.
- Shredded cheese can be substituted with your preferred variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
