Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad a Crowdpleaser

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad that's dead easy? Honestly, who doesn't! This Creamy pasta salad is bursting with flavour, and is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy ish twist.

Brief Overview

The classic Broccoli Pasta Salad has American roots, but we've given it a British makeover. It's ready in just over an hour, including chilling time.

This recipe serves 6, perfect for a family get-together or a Picnic pasta salad .

Main Benefits

This Chicken Broccoli Pasta is packed with protein and fibre! The creamy dressing makes it an instant hit. It's ideal for a bank holiday Summer pasta salad with friends.

This Easy pasta salad recipe is special because it's customisable, and you can even make-ahead pasta salad .

Let's Talk Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

So, before we get started, it's important that we understand the recipe. The ingredients are simple and easy to find.

• Pasta: 1 pound of rotini.
• Chicken: 1 pound cooked chicken breasts.
• Broccoli: 1 large head.
• Red Onion: Half a cup, diced.
• Sunflower Seeds: Half a cup (optional).
• Dried Cranberries: A quarter cup (optional).
• Cheddar Cheese: A quarter cup, grated (optional).
• Mayonnaise: 1 cup.
• Sour Cream: Half a cup.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon.
• Garlic Powder: Half a teaspoon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Equipment Needed

Alright, let’s get our ducks in a row. You'll need a few bits of kit. A large pot is essential for your pasta.

A colander to drain that pasta is a must. A large mixing bowl to bring it all together. And finally, a good whisk for that scrummy dressing.

How to Make the Best Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

You know, I once made this salad for a school fete. Everyone raved about it!. Follow these steps and you'll be golden: First, cook your pasta until al dente, don't over do it!.

Next, cook the chicken, and steam that broccoli. Now, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Finally, toss everything together and chill.

Easy peasy! That's what makes it a true Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Right, so you fancy making a Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ? Ace choice! It's dead easy and always a winner, especially for summer gatherings.

I mean, who doesn't love a good Broccoli Pasta Salad , especially one loaded with Chicken Broccoli Pasta ? This recipe is all about keeping it simple, so let's look at what you'll need.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle). Honestly, any short pasta will do, even the cheap stuff!
• 1 pound (450g) cooked chicken breasts, diced. I usually just buy a cooked chicken from Tesco to make it even easier.
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets. Fresher is always better, but frozen will do in a pinch!
• 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, finely diced.
• 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise. Go full fat for the best flavor, but light works too. I like Hellmann's, but use whatever you fancy.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream. Or plain Greek yogurt if you are feeling healthy.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey. Maple syrup works too if you are feeling fancy!

Seasoning Notes: It's All About That Flavor

The right seasoning can make or break a dish, especially a Creamy pasta salad .

• Onion and garlic powder. A must for depth of flavor.
• Dijon mustard. Adds a lovely tangy kick.
• Salt and pepper. To taste. Don't be shy! Ranch Pasta Salad lovers, you can totally add a ranch seasoning packet here for an extra punch of that flavour!

Quick Substitution Options: Don't have apple cider vinegar? Lemon juice will do!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Large mixing bowl: For everything else.
• Whisk: For the dressing. A fork works too, honestly.
• Knife & Cutting Board: Obvious, but still worth mentioning.

Common Household Alternatives: No steamer basket? Just boil the broccoli for 5 minutes ! Keep a close eye on it! You don't want it mushy!

This Easy pasta salad recipe is perfect for a Summer pasta salad . It is a good Picnic pasta salad or lunch.

Plus, you can totally make-ahead pasta salad and it tastes even better the next day. Enjoy your Pasta salad with chicken and vegetables !

Get Ready for the Best Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad - Ever!

Oh my gosh, you guys! Let’s talk about Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad . Not just any Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad , but the ultimate Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad .

This easy pasta salad recipe is my go-to for pretty much everything from summer BBQs to cheeky mid-week lunches. Honestly, it's the perfect picnic pasta salad ! I swear, once you make this, you'll ditch all your other summer pasta salad recipes.

This make-ahead pasta salad is also great because it tastes even better the next day.

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Magic

Alright, so before we get started, let's get our ducks in a row, yeah? First, cook 1 pound of pasta.

Rotini, penne, or farfalle your call. Dice up 1 pound of cooked chicken, and chop 1 large head of broccoli into florets.

Finally, finely dice 1/2 cup of red onion. Trust me, having everything ready beforehand makes this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad a total breeze.

Nailing the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad: step-by-step

1. Cook the pasta 'til it's al dente . Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. If you're not using pre-cooked chicken, cook it and dice it up.
3. Steam the broccoli for about 5- 7 minutes until it's tender crisp.
4. Whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. This is the secret to a top-notch creamy pasta salad !
5. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli with the dressing.
6. Add 1/2 cup of red onion, 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds (optional), 1/4 cup of dried cranberries (optional), and 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Chill the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. The longer it chills, the better the flavours meld together!

Cracking Tips for a Champion Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Want to take your Broccoli Pasta Salad to the next level? Here's the scoop:

• Don't overcook the broccoli! Soggy broccoli is a total mood killer. Aim for tender crisp.
• Make sure everything is properly cooled before mixing with the dressing. Otherwise, you'll end up with a ranch pasta salad that's a bit... watery. Yuck!
• The dressing is key, so taste and adjust as you go. A little extra vinegar can add a nice zing.

Honestly, this Chicken Broccoli Pasta is so simple, it's almost criminal. But hey, who's complaining when you've got a bowl of this deliciousness in front of you? Perfect for any occasion and a great way to get some pasta salad with chicken and vegetables into your diet.

Enjoy, luvs!

Recipe Notes for the Ultimate Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Right, so you're ready to make this killer Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad? Ace! Before you get stuck in, let’s go over a few crucial bits and bobs to make sure it’s absolutely spot on.

I've been making my own Ranch Pasta Salad version of this dish for years. This time I will share every trick in the book! Honestly, a little tweaking can make all the difference.

Serving this Epic Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Okay, so how do you present this Pasta Salad with Chicken and Vegetables ? For a BBQ, pile it high in a big bowl.

Proper family style! For a posh picnic, layer it prettily in a glass container so everyone can see the colours.

A sprig of parsley never hurt anyone, either. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta goes brilliantly with some crusty bread and a nice bit of grilled chicken or sausages.

If you are feeling fancy, serve chilled white wine.

Storage Secrets

Listen up because this is important. You can prepare it up front and it will still taste great. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is a make-ahead pasta salad dream.

Refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to mingle! Freezing isn't ideal, though.

The mayo tends to separate and can make the creamy pasta salad a bit weird. Reheating isn't usually needed, it's best served straight from the fridge.

Nifty Variations for Your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Fancy a tweak? If you are looking to get a bit more protein, add some chickpeas, or white beans! Swap the mayo for a vegan version to get a dairy-free Broccoli Pasta Salad .

For a seasonal swap, think roasted butternut squash in autumn instead of broccoli. Adds a lovely sweetness.

The Nitty Gritty: Nutrition

Alright, let’s talk numbers, but keep it simple. This Summer Pasta Salad is packed with protein from the chicken and good carbs from the pasta.

Broccoli is full of vitamins, obviously. A serving is around 500 calories, with a decent amount of protein and fibre.

Perfect for keeping you going!

So there you have it. My personal tips for a spot-on Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad . Go on, give it a go and let me know what you think! You won't regret it.

It is an easy pasta salad recipe , and it will make you look great!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad - last in the fridge, and is it safe to eat after a few days?

Your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad will happily keep in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just give it a good sniff and a peek before tucking in, and if anything seems off (colour, smell), best to chuck it. Food safety first, old bean!

Can I make this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad - ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this salad often tastes better the next day, like a good stew on a chilly evening. Prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld together in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving, as the dressing might settle a bit.

What are some good variations I can make to this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad - recipe?

Fancy a twist? You could add some crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky flavour or try using different cheeses, like a mature cheddar or even some feta. For a bit of spice, a pinch of chilli flakes in the dressing works wonders.

Or, for a veggie boost, chuck in some chopped bell peppers or cherry tomatoes Bob's your uncle!

I'm not a fan of mayonnaise. Can I substitute something else in the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad - dressing?

No worries, mayonnaise isn't everyone's cup of tea. You can absolutely replace some or all of it with Greek yogurt for a tangier and healthier option. Alternatively, try a mixture of sour cream and plain yogurt, or even a lighter vinaigrette style dressing. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to taste!

How do I prevent my broccoli from getting soggy in this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

Soggy broccoli is a classic kitchen blunder! To avoid it, steam the broccoli florets until they're just tender crisp. Then, immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright green colour.

Make sure the broccoli is properly drained and cooled before adding it to the salad no one wants a watery disaster.