Tangy Cold Chicken Pasta Salad

A refreshing pasta salad combines tender chicken with a zesty dressing that's perfect for warm days. It's an easy, flavorful dish that’s great for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.

Practical Cooking Tips

Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when chilled.
Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken to speed up preparation.
Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Ingredients 0/8

1 (8 ounce) package rotini pasta 1 cup fat-free mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning ½ teaspoon dried mustard 24 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 (15 ounce) can peas, drained 2 (5 ounce) cans chicken packed in water, drained 1 pinch paprika

Why This Recipe Is So Tasty

This dish combines the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. The tangy dressing adds a bright flavor that makes it a great option for warm days or easy meals. It’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead, saving time without sacrificing taste.

Directions

Boil a big pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of a bite—around 8 minutes should do it. Drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse with cold water to cool it down. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon pepper seasoning, and dried mustard until smooth. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, peas, and cooked chicken, then gently fold in the cooled pasta. Just before serving, sprinkle a little paprika on top for a pop of color and flavor.

182

people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Simple Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad on its own for a light lunch or as a side dish at picnics and barbecues. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Toss gently before serving to redistribute the dressing and maintain the best texture. Avoid freezing, as the pasta and vegetables may become soggy.