Ziti Chicken Salad
Creamy ziti chicken salad combines tender pasta, cooked chicken, peas, and crisp celery, all coated in a tangy mayonnaise and vinegar dressing—perfect for light lunches or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine vinegar and oil and toss with cooked ziti to coat evenly.
- Add the thawed green peas, diced celery, diced cooked chicken, and chopped onion to the ziti.
- Toss all ingredients together until well mixed.
- Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or a dollop of Greek yogurt. You can substitute ziti with any pasta shape you have on hand. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating herbs like dill or parsley. For a crunchier texture, add some chopped nuts or seeds. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ziti chicken salad as a light lunch or dinner option. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or pairing it with the Oven Cooked Chicken Meal for a delightful combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra mayonnaise to ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out. You can gently warm it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or serve it cold for a refreshing option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti Chicken Salad contains roughly 525 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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 chicken in this salad?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor. Just make sure it is diced into bite-sized pieces. This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover cooked chicken from previous meals, like the Oven Cooked Chicken Meal.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this ziti chicken salad healthier, use whole grain pasta and swap regular mayonnaise for a lighter version or Greek yogurt. You can also increase the amount of veggies, like adding bell peppers or cucumbers, to boost the nutritional content.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store it in individual containers. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a quick grab-and-go option for lunches throughout the week.
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).