Are you a fan of creamy pasta salads? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering chicken pasta salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Caesar to bold and spicy Sriracha, we’ve gathered the best and most deliciously creamy chicken pasta salads out there. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, these recipes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a tour of the world’s cuisines, from Greece to Mexico and beyond, as we explore the many flavors and textures that make up the perfect chicken pasta salad. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find at least one (or ten!) that becomes your new go-to dish.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes!
Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, savory, and indulgent pasta dish. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a tangy Caesar dressing for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup Caesar salad dressing
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, bacon, Caesar dressing, mayonnaise, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the savory flavor of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add cooked chicken, avocado, and pasta to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking pasta)
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta Salad
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this Greek-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, tangy yogurt, and crunchy veggies for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 tsp. dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Greek yogurt until smooth.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, all tied together with a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks or quick lunches!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Pour in ranch dressing and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
A spicy twist on traditional pasta salad, this Buffalo chicken version combines creamy ranch dressing with the bold flavors of buffalo wings and crunchy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp. ranch seasoning
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix until well coated.
3. Add cooked pasta, ranch dressing, blue cheese (if using), and cilantro to the bowl. Toss until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with pasta, chicken, and a hint of lemon. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of basil pesto, grilled chicken, and tender vegetables, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Grill chicken breast until cooked through; slice into strips.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest. Blend until smooth pesto forms.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
5. Toss with 1/2 cup of the prepared pesto sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the savory flavor of chicken, all tossed together with a medley of vegetables and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. creamy dressing (such as ranch or Italian)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce and olive oil.
3. Add the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl; toss everything together until coated with the spicy dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Salad
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
This flavorful salad combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of chicken, tossed together with pasta and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped basil leaves. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this delicious BBQ chicken pasta salad recipe! This refreshing twist combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using). Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this unique pasta salad, combining the creaminess of peanut sauce with the spiciness of Thai red curry paste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp. Thai red curry paste
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, curry paste, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pasta, and peanut sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and peanuts.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and chicken for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked chicken, olive oil, and cooked pasta to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese with the ease of a quick pasta dish. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and cooked pasta.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt, pepper, and basil.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Salad
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This Spinach Artichoke Chicken Pasta Salad combines the richness of spinach, artichokes, and chicken with the comfort of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the chicken mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Chicken Pasta Salad
This hearty salad combines spicy Cajun flavors with tender chicken, pasta, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a satisfying meal or potluck. With its bold and zesty flavor profile, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and olive oil; toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Elevate your pasta salad game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad! Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a hint of balsamic glaze come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
5. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the pasta mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fajita Chicken Pasta Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of sizzling fajitas with the comfort of pasta, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With juicy chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and a hint of cumin, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add peppers, onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro (if using) in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cheese Walnut Chicken Pasta Salad
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, crunchy, and savory Blue Cheese Walnut Chicken Pasta Salad. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, blue cheese, walnuts, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Dijon mustard.
4. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until coated.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curry Chicken Pasta Salad
Add a twist to your classic pasta salad with this flavorful Curry Chicken Pasta Salad recipe. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp. curry powder
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Herbed Chicken Pasta Salad with Feta
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of chicken, herbs, feta cheese, and pasta, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. The bright green parsley and dill add a pop of color and freshness to this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, parsley, and dill.
3. Add the cooked chicken, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
4. Toss in cooked pasta and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy and delicious world of chicken pasta salad recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes offers a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Caesar to spicy Sriracha, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion. Try the Avocado Lime Chicken Pasta Salad for a refreshing twist or go bold with the Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad. With a range of ingredients and flavor combinations, you’re bound to find your new favorite recipe among these creamy chicken pasta salads.