Hot Or Cold Chicken 'N Pasta
A versatile chicken and pasta salad that can be enjoyed hot or cold, featuring a creamy basil dressing, tender cooked chicken, corkscrew pasta, and vibrant mixed vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, appealing to those seeking a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, buttermilk, Parmesan cheese, and basil leaves.
- Add the cooked, diced chicken or turkey, cooked and cooled pasta, and cooked, cooled mixed vegetables.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. Fresh basil can enhance the flavor, but dried basil works well too. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds before serving. This dish can easily be adapted to include other vegetables, similar to those found in Garden Medley Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a main course for a picnic or potluck. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with a light salad or crusty bread to balance the meal. It also goes well with sides like Colene'S Chicken And Gravy or a fresh vegetable platter for a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain a consistent temperature without overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Or Cold Chicken 'N Pasta contains roughly 60 calories, with 6g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 use whole wheat pasta instead of corkscrew pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds more fiber to the dish. Just be sure to cook it slightly less than the package instructions suggest, as it can become mushy if overcooked. The whole wheat flavor will complement the chicken and vegetables nicely.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken or turkey and replace it with additional vegetables or a protein source such as chickpeas or tofu. You could also add more flavor by including ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the overall taste.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this chicken 'n pasta dish is excellent for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store it in individual portions. It holds up well in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Just give it a good stir before serving.
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).