Pasta And Chicken Salad
A creamy pasta and chicken salad with mandarin oranges, blue cheese, and crunchy celery, perfect for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing picnic dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rigatoni, chopped chicken, drained mandarin oranges, chopped celery, salt, pepper, and mayonnaise in a large bowl.
- Add crumbled blue cheese and toss lightly to combine.
- Sprinkle with paprika and chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the salad. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also replace the blue cheese with feta or omit it entirely for a milder taste. Ensure the rigatoni is al dente to maintain a good texture in the salad. This dish is great for meal prep, making it a versatile choice for busy weeks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta and chicken salad as a hearty main dish or as a side at barbecues and potlucks. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Spicy Chicken Wings or a light green salad. To elevate the meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fruit platter for a refreshing contrast. It's perfect for summer picnics or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after chilling, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors. Reheat gently in the microwave if desired, but it's best enjoyed cold. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Chicken Salad contains roughly 962 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2055mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to your salad. Just make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients as you would with cooked chicken.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter option. Another choice is to blend avocado for a creamy texture without the calories of mayonnaise.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked beans like chickpeas or kidney beans. You could also incorporate more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to boost the nutrition and volume. This will provide extra fiber and protein, making it a more satisfying meal.
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).