Description
This Savory Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful summer dish that combines tender rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy dressing tossed with corkscrew pasta. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic, this pasta salad offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that bring your favorite club sandwich flavors into a single bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Dressing
- 8 oz corkscrew-shaped pasta
- 1/2 cup Italian-style salad dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (low-fat or Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option)
Protein & Cheese
- 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (grilled chicken or turkey can be substituted)
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon (turkey bacon or omitted if preferred)
- 1 cup cubed Muenster cheese (cheddar or mozzarella can be used instead)
Vegetables & Extras
- 1 cup chopped celery (can be replaced with bell peppers)
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper (mix colors for appeal or leave out)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (grape or regular diced tomatoes can be used)
- 1 avocado (add just before serving to maintain freshness)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the corkscrew-shaped pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water immediately to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating the base flavor for your pasta salad.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooled pasta into the dressing followed by the chopped rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, cubed cheese, celery, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Mix carefully to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing without mashing the avocado.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and develop for a deliciously harmonious taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve chilled as a perfect summer meal or side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use low-fat mayo.
- Avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its fresh flavor and texture.
- You can customize the pasta shape to any preference or what you have on hand.
- Omit bacon or use turkey bacon for a healthier option.
- Feel free to swap vegetables according to seasonal availability or personal taste.
