Description
A delicious and refreshing Chicken Bacon Pasta Salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- In a small bowl, blend the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing gently to ensure every ingredient is coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- When ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Notes
- For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg