This Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad brings together two of my favorite sides, a classic broccoli salad and a creamy pasta salad, into one tasty side dish that complements nearly any main course. For another comforting dinner, see Really Good Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavor-Packed Potluck Side.
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Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad
While January is usually all about sharing healthy meal ideas, I’m still happily preparing pasta salad. New year, same old me! Whether you are watching your diet or not, I believe there is always space for a pasta salad. Particularly when it is this Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad. For another easy chicken meal, see The Ultimate Chicken Club Pasta Salad.
I have shared plenty of Pasta Salad recipes over on this blog. You can browse the complete collection here. You will discover traditional favorites alongside a broad range of creative twists. There is truly an option to match every craving and occasion.
What I truly enjoy about the pasta salad recipe featured here is how it blends our favorite elements of broccoli salad with all the classic appeal of pasta salad. If you haven’t tried it before, broccoli salad usually consists of broccoli, raisins, red onion, bacon, almonds, and a sweet tangy creamy dressing. (Specific components shift depending on the version, but you catch my drift.)
Ingredients for This Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad?
This dish features most of the components I just listed plus a couple of additional items. Here is what you will need to prepare this recipe:
- pasta
- chicken
- broccoli
- raisins
- celery
- red onion
- almonds
- dressing
To make the dressing, I started with mayonnaise and sour cream as the foundation, then boosted the taste using Dijon mustard, sugar, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. The sauce is absolutely tasty and pairs wonderfully with the components in this pasta salad.
How to Prepare This Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad?
To prepare this dish, begin by getting all your components ready. (The full ingredient list and step-by-step directions are located in the printable recipe card further down.) I began by cooking the poultry. I prefer roasting it in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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I boiled the pasta following the package guidelines. I prefer cooking it al dente so it maintains its texture when mixed with the dressing and chilled. I chose mini bowties for this dish, but you can substitute any small pasta shape you prefer. Another recipe that works well for a busy day is Thanksgiving Salad, Easy Festive Holiday Mixed Green Salad.
I chopped the poultry into small cubes. You can grab a rotisserie chicken to save time, or cook your own. I also finely chopped the celery and red onion, and sliced the almonds.
I mixed all the components in a large bowl and stirred them together. Next, I prepared the dressing and drizzled it over the mixture. I stirred everything thoroughly until evenly coated.
I sampled the mixture and adjusted the salt and pepper to my liking. I enjoy this salad chilled, so I covered it and placed it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. It actually tastes even better the following day!
Here are a few helpful tips for preparing this dish:
Can I make this Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any small pasta shape works well. The recipe uses mini bowties, but you can substitute with rotini, shells, or macaroni.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and works perfectly in this salad.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
When stored covered in an airtight container, this salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad
This Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Salad combines two of my favorite sides, broccoli salad and pasta salad, into one flavorful accompaniment that goes with almost any main dish.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 1 4 1x
- Method: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (cooked al dente according to package directions (I used mini bowties.))
- 1.5 pounds cooked chicken breast (diced into small cubes (about 3 cups ))
- 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1/2- to 1-inch pieces)
- 3/4 cup golden raisins*
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss together the pasta, diced chicken, broccoli, raisins, almonds*, celery, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the dressing. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the dressing onto the pasta salad and toss with a large spoon to evenly coat the pasta. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
- You can enjoy this salad right away or store it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 409 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Protein: 22 g
