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A refreshing and creamy cold pasta salad combining elbow macaroni, cooked chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced red onion
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
  • Optional add-ins: pickles, hard-boiled eggs, olives, or cheese

Instructions

  1. Boil macaroni in salted water for 7–9 minutes until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  2. Cook chicken or use rotisserie/leftovers; if cooking fresh, poach breasts or thighs in water or broth until cooked through, then cool completely.
  3. Dice celery, red onion, and bell pepper, and shred carrots finely.
  4. Whisk mayonnaise, mustard (optional), vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth; add a splash of milk or water to thin if desired.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooled pasta, chicken, and chopped vegetables with the dressing until evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld; stir gently before serving and add more dressing if it seems dry.

Notes

Do not overcook the macaroni; aim for al dente to maintain texture., Ensure chicken is completely cooled before mixing to keep vegetables crisp., Start with light seasoning; adjust after chilling for balanced flavor., Use vinaigrettes or Greek yogurt as lighter alternatives to mayonnaise for the dressing., Make ahead by preparing components up to 24 hours in advance and combining just before serving to save time., Store assembled salad in airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; flavors improve after chilling., Freezing is not ideal due to mayonnaise texture changes; if freezing, freeze without dressing and add fresh dressing after thawing., If salad is dry after chilling, add a splash of milk or extra mayonnaise and stir gently.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingcrumbs.com/ultimate-cold-chicken-macaroni-salad-a-delicious-summer-treat/