Pasta Chicken Salad(268 Calories Per Serving)
Pasta Chicken Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines tender pasta shells with juicy chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables. Tossed in a creamy Italian dressing, it's a refreshing option perfect for picnics or a light lunch. Ideal for those seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 c. large shells (uncooked) ⓘ
- 2 c. cubed, cooked chicken (light meat) ⓘ
- 2 c. fresh, raw broccoli flowerets ⓘ
- 2 c. fresh, raw cauliflower ⓘ
- 1 c. sliced carrots
- 1 c. sliced green onions ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced ⓘ
- 1 c. reduced calorie creamy Italian salad dressing ⓘ
- 3/4 c. skim milk ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook large shells according to package directions.
- Drain and cool (rinse with cold water to cool quickly, then drain well).
- Combine cooled large shells with remaining ingredients and toss lightly.
- Chill.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more dressing or using a full-fat Italian dressing if calories are not a concern. You can substitute the large shells with small penne or rotini for a different shape. Fresh vegetables can be swapped based on seasonal availability; try adding peas or bell peppers for additional color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta Chicken Salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish at a picnic. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an even heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken for a delightful contrast, or consider serving it with Tater Tot Casserole for a fun twist on a classic American meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, serve it cold for a refreshing meal or snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Chicken Salad(268 Calories Per Serving) contains roughly 867 calories, with 16g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (140% of the Daily Value), iron (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1419mg per serving (62% 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! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the salad. Just ensure it's shredded or cubed into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
What can I use instead of creamy Italian dressing?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute with a vinaigrette or a ranch dressing. A homemade dressing made from yogurt, herbs, and lemon juice can also be a healthier alternative.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, this Pasta Chicken Salad is ideal for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and the flavors meld beautifully over time. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the pasta from getting soggy.
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).