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Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad You've Been Craving All Summer

This creamy chicken pasta salad combines tender macaroni, smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and sharp cheddar for a delightful summer dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Macaroni Can substitute with rotini or shells.
  • 2 cups Chicken (shredded or cubed) Cooked prior to mixing.
  • 6 slices Bacon Can substitute with turkey bacon.
  • 1 cup Celery (finely diced)
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper (diced)
  • 1/2 cup Green Onions (sliced)
  • 1 cup Carrots (grated)
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (cubed or shredded)
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and let cool before chopping.
  3. Finely dice the celery, bell pepper, and green onions, and grate the carrots. Set the diced vegetables aside.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. In the bowl with the vegetables, add the cooled macaroni, cooked chicken, and the dressing. Toss until fully coated.
  6. Cover and let the salad rest for about 20 minutes at room temperature to meld flavors.
  7. Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocados and chopped bacon.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Adjust seasoning before serving to enhance flavor. Add avocados just before serving to maintain freshness.

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