Description
This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Salad is the perfect combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful dressing. Whether you’re preparing for a picnic, barbecue, or just a quick and easy meal, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and easy to make ahead, making it great for meal prep. With a mix of textures and flavors, it’s a dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice), cooked and drained
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup carrots, grated
- ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup sweet pickles, chopped (optional)
- ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook and shred/dice the chicken breast.
-
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the celery, carrots, bell peppers, red onion, and pickles. Thaw the frozen peas if using.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until smooth.
-
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, peas, and shredded cheddar (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
- Make it Healthier: Swap some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Storage Tips: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead for lunches or gatherings.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side dish for barbecues, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 10 min (for pasta and chicken)
- Category: lunch
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g