Curried Chicken Pasta Salad
A vibrant, flavorful pasta salad combining tender chicken, crisp apples, sun-dried tomatoes, and a curry-spiced mayonnaise dressing—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain.
- Transfer the cooked pasta to a large bowl.
- Add sliced grilled chicken, diced apple, sliced celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and sliced green onions or Vidalia onion.
- In a small bowl, combine hot picante sauce, fat-free mayonnaise, mango chutney, and curry powder; mix well.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of fat-free mayonnaise. You can also substitute the grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you're not a fan of curry powder, try using a mild curry paste for a more intense flavor. Add some chopped nuts for extra crunch or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Curried Chicken Pasta Salad chilled for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Cream Of Fresh Vegetable Soup or a light green salad. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top before serving. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a splash of hot picante sauce or a dollop of mayonnaise when serving to refresh the salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Chicken Pasta Salad contains roughly 307 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it chilled and covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will blend beautifully, but you may need to add a bit more dressing before serving to maintain its creaminess.
What type of pasta works best?
Bow tie pasta or rotini are great choices as they hold the dressing well. However, you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just ensure to cook it al dente to prevent it from getting mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even peas for more color and nutrition. Just keep in mind the balance of flavors, so choose vegetables that complement the curry and apple.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).