Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, fresh, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Coronation Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, or a delightful addition to your next picnic or potluck. It's a vibrant twist on a classic, combining the creamy sweetness of coronation chicken with the satisfying chew of pasta and a medley of fresh vegetables. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or penne work well)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Toasted slivered almonds (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
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Prepare the Coronation Chicken Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apricot jam, curry powder, lemon juice, milk or cream, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more curry powder for a bolder flavor!
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, grapes, red onion, celery, and cilantro (if using) to the bowl with the coronation chicken sauce. Gently toss to combine everything evenly, ensuring all the pasta and ingredients are well coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! Before serving, garnish with toasted slivered almonds for added crunch and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Coronation Chicken Pasta Salad:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder to your liking. For a milder flavor, use less; for a spicier kick, add more!
- Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. It's already cooked and ready to go, making this recipe even quicker.
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad is even better the next day! The flavors have time to fully develop, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables. Chopped bell peppers, cucumber, or even mango would be delicious additions.
- Pasta Choice: While rotini, farfalle, and penne work best, you can use any short pasta shape you prefer.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
A Quick and Healthy Meal Solution
This Coronation Chicken Pasta Salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meal prepping and quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!