This Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad combines tasty chicken, crunchy apples, and creamy dressing all in a bowl of pasta! It’s refreshing and perfect for a delightful lunch or picnic.
I love how the sweet apples mix with the savory chicken—it’s like a flavor party! 🎉 Plus, it’s quick to whip up. Just cook, mix, and enjoy—no fuss at all!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is fun to eat and holds the dressing well. If you can’t find it, try rotini or penne for a similar effect. They’re both great at catching bits of chicken and grapes!
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is best for this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even leftover grilled chicken if you have it. For a vegetarian option, swap with chickpeas or tofu.
Grapes: I love using red seedless grapes as they add a sweet crunch. Green grapes work too if you prefer a slightly tart flavor. You can also use apple chunks for an extra twist!
Almonds: Toasted sliced almonds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a similar crunch without the nut risk.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a hint of tang. If you want a lighter alternative, use low-fat mayo only or substitute with more Greek yogurt. You can also try avocado for a creamy texture!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Isn’t Mushy?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial! Here’s how to keep your pasta salad perfectly al dente:
- Follow package instructions carefully, but reduce the cooking time by a minute or two for firmer pasta.
- Always rinse the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta from getting sticky.
- Mix the pasta with the dressing right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or scallions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, let the pasta salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. So, if you combine prep and chill time, you’re looking at around 45 minutes total. But much of that time is just waiting, so it’s super easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the farfalle pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite. After cooking, drain the pasta and give it a cool rinse under cold water. This keeps it from getting sticky. Set it aside to drain fully.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, and toasted sliced almonds. Try to mix these guys together gently so that everything incorporates well without crushing the grapes.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, grab your whisk! Combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until it’s all smooth and creamy—a little dressing magic!
4. Toss Everything Together:
Now, pour that creamy dressing over your pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together using a big spoon or spatula until all the pasta and veggies are nicely coated. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Chill and Serve:
If you’re using green onions, fold them into the mixture gently now. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time lets all those delicious flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your salad chilled or at room temperature!
Dig in and enjoy this delightful Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for sunny days, picnics, or lunch at home. 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While farfalle is great for this recipe, you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente for the best texture in your salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again, as the dressing may thicken a bit after sitting.
Can I Substitute the Chicken?
Yes! If you want a lighter option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu for a vegetarian take. You can also use turkey or any leftover meat you have on hand!
What Should I Serve with This Salad?
This salad is a perfect standalone dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crispy vegetables on the side. You can also serve it with crackers for an extra crunch! Enjoy!
