Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a fun weekend gathering. It’s a delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, transformed into a refreshing and satisfying pasta salad brimming with flavor. This easy recipe is packed with protein, making it a fantastic healthy meal option for the whole family. Get ready to elevate your pasta salad game!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk ranch dressing (or your favorite dressing)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Boil or bake the chicken breasts until cooked through. For quicker cooking, you can also use leftover cooked chicken. Once cooled, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, and cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Chicken Club Pasta Salad immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better after it has had a chance to sit for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Chicken variations: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for an even faster recipe. Grilled or pan-fried chicken also works well.
- Pasta choices: Experiment with different pasta shapes. Orzo or penne would also be delicious.
- Dressing adjustments: For a lighter salad, reduce the mayonnaise and add a little Greek yogurt. You can also customize the dressing to your liking, using your favorite herbs or spices.
- Add-ins: Get creative with your add-ins! Consider adding chopped celery, red onion, or different types of cheese. Sun-dried tomatoes would also add a nice burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking solutions. Enjoy!