Best 4 Leftover Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or summer potlucks, look no further than this Leftover Chicken Pasta Salad. Made with tender chunks of chicken, colorful vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Whether you have rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even canned chicken on hand, this recipe is a great way to use it up. And with the addition of colorful vegetables like celery, carrots, and red onion, this salad is packed with nutrients. Plus, the tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs adds a delicious flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

But the best part about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also switch up the dressing by using a creamy Caesar dressing or a light vinaigrette. And if you're looking for a protein boost, you can add some cooked shrimp, bacon, or chopped hard-boiled eggs.

No matter how you choose to make it, this Leftover Chicken Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit. It's a delicious, easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any occasion. So grab your leftover chicken and get cooking!

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad image

This pasta salad is packed with flavor and color! Rotini pasta, diced chicken, and a homemade ranch dressing make this tasty side dish!

Provided by Holly Nilsson

Categories     Pasta     Salad     Side Dish

Time 1h30m

Number Of Ingredients 11

12 ounces rigatoni (or rotini, or penne)
2 cups chicken (cooked and diced )
6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled, extra for garnish if desired)
1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
1 cup cheddar cheese (diced)
3 green onions (sliced, plus more for garnish)
fresh parsley and dill for garnish (optional)
⅔ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup milk
1 package ranch dressing mix* (or see notes for a from scratch version)

Steps:

  • Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water per the package directions. Drain well and run under cold water. Set aside.
  • Combine dressing ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Mix remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Toss with dressing.
  • Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with green onions and serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 447 kcal, Carbohydrate 34 g, Protein 12 g, Fat 29 g, SaturatedFat 9 g, Cholesterol 42 mg, Sodium 345 mg, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 3 g, ServingSize 1 serving

BALSAMIC CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad image

I love all the colors and flavors of this quick and easy dish and serve it often in summer, to the delight of my guests! You can't beat the combination of Gorgonzola and bacon. Leftover grilled shrimp makes a tasty substitute for chicken. -Terry McCarty, Oro Grande, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 25m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
4 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
2 cups chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped red onion
4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup minced fresh basil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water; transfer to a large bowl. Add the chicken, tomatoes, onion, bacon and Gorgonzola cheese., In a small bowl, whisk the oil, basil, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, salt and pepper. Drizzle over salad and toss to coat; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 408 calories, Fat 20g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 65mg cholesterol, Sodium 323mg sodium, Carbohydrate 28g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 28g protein.

LEFTOVER CHICKEN PASTA SALAD



Leftover Chicken Pasta Salad image

Make and share this Leftover Chicken Pasta Salad recipe from Food.com.

Provided by Maiumlteacute G.

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 30m

Yield 2-4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

200 g spirelli pasta, cooked and cooled
1/2 chicken breast, cooked or grilled, cubed
1/2 cucumber, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 yellow pepper, chopped
1 orange, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
2 tablespoons nonfat yogurt
1 teaspoon curry powder

Steps:

  • Toss the first 6 ingredients.
  • Combine mayonnaise, yoghurt and curry powder.
  • Mix everything together until coated. Double the amount of dressing if you like it more saucy.
  • Put in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 563.2, Fat 8.1, SaturatedFat 1.7, Cholesterol 25.4, Sodium 102.9, Carbohydrate 99.3, Fiber 7.8, Sugar 15, Protein 24.8

PASTA CHICKEN SALAD



Pasta Chicken Salad image

Pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes and olives turn everyday salad mix into a Mediterranean delight. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken. Thanks to Brandlyn Graham of Clifton, Tennessee for the recipe!

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 2 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 boneless skinless chicken breast half (6 ounces)
3/4 cup uncooked bow tie pasta
3 cups Italian-blend salad greens
1/2 cup quartered water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed and drained
8 pitted ripe olives
2 tablespoons chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup Italian salad dressing
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • Grill chicken, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat for 4-6 minutes on each side or until a thermometer reads 170°. Set aside., Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large serving bowl, combine the salad greens, artichokes, olives and tomatoes. Cube chicken. Drain pasta and rinse in cold water; add pasta and chicken to salad greens., Drizzle dressing over salad; sprinkle with walnuts and cheese. Toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 349 calories, Fat 12g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 52mg cholesterol, Sodium 852mg sodium, Carbohydrate 34g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 28g protein.

Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
  • Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
  • Use a variety of vegetables in the salad for added flavor and texture.
  • Choose a dressing that complements the flavors of the chicken, pasta, and vegetables.
  • Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve the salad with a side of bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Leftover chicken pasta salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or a potluck. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and pasta, and it's also a healthy and satisfying meal. With a little planning, you can easily make a leftover chicken pasta salad that everyone will enjoy.

Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »

    #30-minutes-or-less     #time-to-make     #course     #main-ingredient     #cuisine     #preparation     #occasion     #for-1-or-2     #healthy     #lunch     #salads     #fruit     #pasta     #easy     #european     #beginner-cook     #potluck     #kid-friendly     #low-fat     #picnic     #spring     #summer     #dietary     #low-sodium     #low-cholesterol     #seasonal     #low-saturated-fat     #low-calorie     #inexpensive     #healthy-2     #toddler-friendly     #low-in-something     #citrus     #oranges     #pasta-rice-and-grains     #to-go     #number-of-servings

Related Topics