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What Makes This Salad Special

What makes this chicken broccoli pasta salad a standout is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. You get the juiciness of tender chicken, the fresh crunch of broccoli, and the silky creaminess of the dressing—all wrapped in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s hearty enough for lunch, yet light enough for a summer potluck.

Unlike heavier pasta salads that rely solely on mayonnaise, this recipe blends mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to create a healthier, tangy dressing. Greek yogurt adds a nutritional boost with protein and probiotics, making it an ideal swap for those looking to lighten things up without sacrificing taste. For more on the benefits of yogurt, see Greek yogurt.

What truly elevates this dish is its adaptability. You can serve it warm, cold, or room temperature. It travels well, making it perfect for road trips, picnics, or even meal prepping. Pair it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone main dish. And if you’re browsing pasta salad variations, you’ll notice how this one stands out for its simplicity and satisfaction.

It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Got extra olive oil roasted chicken? Toss it in. Extra cherry tomatoes or shredded cheese? Mix them in for even more color and flavor. This is pasta salad perfection, built to flex with your kitchen and your schedule.

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Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions

This salad is built on simple, accessible ingredients that deliver flavor and texture in every bite.

Base Ingredients

• Pasta (3 cups): Use rotini, penne, or bowtie—their shapes hold dressing well and give a satisfying chew. See more types in this pasta list.

• Chicken (2 cups): Shredded rotisserie, poached breasts, or grilled thighs all work. For a vegetarian twist, sub in chickpeas or roasted tofu.

• Broccoli (2 cups): Blanching enhances color and crunch. Raw broccoli can be used for more bite.

• Red onion (½ cup): Adds sharpness and color. Can substitute with green onion or shallots.

• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Sweet and juicy, they balance the creamy dressing.

• Cheddar cheese (½ cup): Mild and melty. Try feta for a tangy twist or parmesan for richness.

Dressing

• Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy base.

• Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (¼ cup): Adds tang and protein.

• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Smooths the texture.

• Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Adds sharpness and depth. Learn more about Dijon.

• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the flavor.

• Garlic powder (1 tsp): For mellow garlicky warmth.

• Salt and pepper: To taste.

This dressing is a dream—just enough tang, creaminess, and spice to complement the pasta without overpowering it. It also doubles as a great base for other cold pasta salad dishes.

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Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Follow package directions for al dente texture. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Blanch the broccoli: Bring water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for just one minute, then immediately place them in ice water to lock in color and crunch.

3. Chop the veggies: Dice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop fresh parsley if using.

4. Combine the main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, broccoli, red onion, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and parsley.

5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

6. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient evenly.

7. Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Serve chilled. It’s a standout among BBQ side dishes or as a grab-and-go lunch from the fridge.

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Nutrition Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

This chicken broccoli pasta salad is more than just a comfort food—it’s a balanced meal that delivers protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

• Protein-packed: Thanks to the chicken and Greek yogurt, this salad is filling without being heavy.

• Vegetable-rich: Broccoli brings antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber to every serving. For more on this superfood, check broccoli.

• Balanced macros: The pasta provides complex carbs, the dressing offers healthy fats from olive oil, and the protein keeps you satisfied.

• Customizable nutrition: Use whole wheat pasta or reduce cheese for a lower-calorie version. Want it even lighter? Try a lemon vinaigrette instead of creamy dressing.

Great for lunches, meal prep, or light dinners, this salad supports a healthy eating lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

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Ideal Occasions for Serving

This salad is built for versatility. Whether you’re prepping for the week or planning a gathering, it fits any occasion:

• BBQs and cookouts: Serve chilled as a creamy side dish that balances grilled meats.

• Picnics and potlucks: Travels well and holds up at room temperature.

• Weekday lunches: Easy to pack and keeps well for a few days.

• Family dinners: Add crusty bread or a soup on the side.

• Meal prep: Store in containers for grab-and-go meals.

Make it once, and you’ll want to keep it on your light lunch rotation forever.

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Recipe Variations and Flavor Twists

This chicken broccoli pasta salad is endlessly adaptable to suit different palates or dietary needs.

Flavor Ideas:

• Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.

• Southwest: Mix in black beans, corn, jalapeños, and swap dressing for lime-cilantro mayo.

• Italian: Use pesto instead of the creamy dressing, add shaved parmesan and cherry tomatoes.

• Vegan: Use chickpeas instead of chicken, vegan mayo, and omit cheese.

• Spicy: Stir in crushed red pepper or a dash of sriracha into the dressing.

For inspiration, browse pasta salad ideas that match your ingredients or event themes.

This is a “blank canvas” dish—once you master the base, you can spin it any direction.

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How to Store and Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Don’t freeze: The dairy-based dressing will separate.

• Keep it fresh: Add delicate ingredients (like tomatoes or parsley) just before serving.

• Meal prep tips:

  • Divide into lunch containers with added greens or fruit.

  • Pack dressing separately for longer shelf life.

  • Use for multiple meals across the week.

This dish is a meal prep hero—quick to make, easy to store, and just as good on day three as day one.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these simple errors to get the most from your pasta salad:

• Overcooking the pasta: Always cook it al dente to prevent mushiness after mixing.

• Skipping the ice bath for broccoli: It’s the key to vibrant green color and crunch.

• Adding dressing too early: Only mix dressing in after pasta has cooled.

• Not chilling before serving: Flavors need time to develop.

• Under-seasoning: Be sure to taste and adjust salt, lemon juice, or pepper before serving.

Getting the technique right means you’ll always have a refreshing, creamy salad with the perfect bite.

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Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad vs Other Pasta Salads

How does this dish compare to other favorites?

• Tuna Pasta Salad: Often heavier, fish-based, and less fresh-tasting.

• Caprese Pasta Salad: Uses mozzarella and tomatoes but lacks the protein of chicken.

• Italian Deli Pasta Salad: Zesty and acidic, but not as creamy or balanced.

The inclusion of lean chicken and fresh broccoli makes this version more satisfying, protein-rich, and suitable as a full meal, not just a side.

For more inspiration, check out other pasta salad variations.

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FAQs – People Also Ask

What’s the best type of pasta for pasta salad?
Short, sturdy shapes like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold dressing well and offer a satisfying bite. Learn more on the types of pasta.

Can I use raw broccoli in pasta salad?
Yes, but blanching makes it more tender and bright. For more on the vegetable, visit broccoli.

How long does chicken pasta salad last in the fridge?
It keeps fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving if it has sat.

Is chicken pasta salad healthy?
Yes, especially when made with lean chicken, Greek yogurt, and lots of vegetables. It’s high in protein and fiber.

Can I make this salad the night before?
Absolutely. In fact, chilling it overnight enhances the flavor. Add delicate ingredients like parsley or tomatoes just before serving.

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