Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

August 15, 2025

Updated:

August 15, 2025

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Seasoned chicken, fresh broccoli, sweet golden raisins, and a creamy dressing come together in this delightful Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad. This dish is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or any gathering throughout the year. Its bright flavors and colorful ingredients make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of seasoned chicken, crunchy almonds, and sweet raisins creates a delicious medley that tantalizes the taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course. It’s great for meal prep too!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for serving at parties or family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli, this salad balances taste and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Extra large mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Colander: Helps drain the cooked pasta efficiently while rinsing it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Extra large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Ideal for combining dressing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 pound (4 cups) dried Radiatore pasta
– 1 pound cooked seasoned chicken breast, diced into small cubes (about 2 cups)
– 3 cups small broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 3/4 cup sliced almonds
– 4 scallions, diced
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3/4 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dried Radiatore pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In an extra large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until well combined and smooth. This includes mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), honey, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken breast, broccoli florets, golden raisins, diced celery, sliced almonds, and scallions into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Serve or Refrigerate

You can enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad right away or refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a bit!

This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a staple at your gatherings!

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Serving Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad can elevate any gathering, whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or family dinner. This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.

As a Standalone Meal

Enjoy it chilled as a light lunch or dinner option.
Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy dressing.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside grilled meats for a balanced meal.
Perfect for summer gatherings, complementing burgers and hot dogs.

In a Wrap

Use as a filling in a tortilla wrap for an on-the-go lunch.
Add some leafy greens for extra crunch and nutrition.

For Meal Prep

Pack in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for busy schedules.

How to Perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad involves attention to detail in both ingredients and technique. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vibrant broccoli will make your salad taste better.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with other ingredients.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour to let flavors meld together.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before mixing; feel free to add more salt or pepper if needed.
Add Crunch: Incorporating nuts like almonds adds texture and enhances flavor.
Experiment with Dressings: Try substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces and grill them until juicy; they pair perfectly with the salad’s creamy texture.
Corn on the Cob: A summer classic that brings sweetness and crunch, easily grilled or boiled.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add color and nutrients to your meal.
Potato Wedges: Oven-baked wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side without overpowering the main dish.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add natural sweetness after the rich pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta longer than recommended can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and check for al dente.
Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a difference! Ensure your broccoli is bright and crisp, and check that your mayonnaise and other condiments are not expired.
Skipping the chilling time: Rushing to serve the salad immediately can result in flavors not melding properly. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for a tastier salad.
Not adjusting seasoning: Tastes vary from person to person. Always taste your Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad before serving and adjust the salt or pepper as needed.
Ignoring dietary preferences: Some guests may have dietary restrictions. Consider offering alternatives like gluten-free pasta or a vegan dressing for those who need it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Duration: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air before sealing.

Reheating Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld together!

What types of pasta work best for Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

While Radiatore pasta is great for this recipe, you can also use rotini, bowtie, or fusilli. Choose any pasta shape that holds dressing well.

How can I customize my Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad?

You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even cheese for extra flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences!

Is this Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and makes a delicious lunch option throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad is not just a side dish; it’s a flavorful crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings all year round. With its creamy dressing and delightful crunch from fresh ingredients, this salad is versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions and enjoy every bite!