Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a versatile, satisfying dish that works equally well as a light meal, a side dish, or a make-ahead option for gatherings. It combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together beautifully. I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and freshness. The broccoli adds crunch and color, the chicken provides protein, and the pasta makes it hearty enough to keep you full. It is also ideal for meal prep since the flavors improve as it chills. Whether you are planning a picnic, potluck, or quick weekday lunch, this pasta salad is dependable, easy to customize, and always well received. It is one of those recipes that feels familiar yet never boring, making it a staple worth keeping on hand.
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Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad – Creamy, Fresh, and Perfect for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A creamy and refreshing chicken broccoli pasta salad made with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, pasta, and a flavorful dressing—perfect for lunches, potlucks, or light dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or bowtie)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly blanched
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and cool completely.
- Lightly blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Stir in bacon bits if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Serve chilled for best flavor.
- Can be made a day ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta forms the base of the salad, providing structure and a satisfying bite.
Cooked chicken adds lean protein and makes the salad filling and balanced.
Fresh broccoli florets contribute crunch, color, and freshness.
Red onion adds mild sharpness and depth of flavor.
Cheddar cheese provides richness and savory bite.
Mayonnaise creates the creamy foundation of the dressing.
Greek yogurt lightens the dressing while adding subtle tang.
Apple cider vinegar brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess.
Honey adds a touch of sweetness to round out the dressing.
Salt enhances all the ingredients and brings the flavors together.
Black pepper adds gentle heat and seasoning.
Optional sunflower seeds or bacon bits add extra crunch and flavor.
Directions
Begin by cooking the pasta in well-salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Lightly blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for a short time, then immediately transfer them to ice water to preserve their bright color and crisp texture. Drain well.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, red onion, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling time before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This dish is best served cold and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is easy to customize based on taste and dietary needs. For extra flavor, add cooked bacon pieces or roasted garlic to the salad. If you enjoy fruit in savory salads, diced apples or dried cranberries add sweetness and contrast.
I tested this recipe using rotisserie chicken, and it worked exceptionally well, saving time while adding flavor. You can also swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or feta for a different profile.
For a lighter version, increase the Greek yogurt and reduce the mayonnaise slightly. You can also use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if preferred. These variations allow flexibility while keeping the salad creamy, fresh, and satisfying.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein (g) | 24 |
| Carbs (g) | 38 |
| Fat (g) | 20 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 7 |
| Fiber (g) | 4 |
| Sugar (g) | 6 |
| Sodium (mg) | 520 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook pasta al dente
Firm pasta holds up better once dressed.
Blanch broccoli briefly
This keeps it tender-crisp and vibrant.
Chill before serving
Chilling improves flavor and texture.
Adjust dressing as needed
Add a splash of milk if the salad thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal for making a day in advance.
Can I use raw broccoli instead of blanching?
Yes, but blanching softens it slightly and improves texture.
What chicken works best?
Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives.
Is this pasta salad good for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well and makes excellent lunches.
What pairs well with this dish?
It pairs well with sandwiches, grilled meats, or as a standalone meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a creamy, satisfying dish that fits seamlessly into any menu. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and reliable flavor, it is a recipe you can count on for gatherings, meal prep, or quick, wholesome meals throughout the week.
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