Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying salad to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creamy chicken pasta salads that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like Caesar and buffalo wings to fresh takes like avocado ranch and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They all feature chicken as the star of the show, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up some deliciousness!
Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This satisfying salad combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and Caesar dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its tangy and creamy notes, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, lettuce, and cooked pasta.
3. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle croutons and Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss again.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pasta cooking time + assembly)
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
A twist on classic pasta salad, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of ranch dressing and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until well combined.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until everything is coated with the buffalo-chicken mixture.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the tanginess of ranch dressing and the protein-packed punch of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, and ranch dressing. Toss until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking pasta)
Servings: 6-8
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of Greece and Italy with chicken, olives, artichokes, and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow-tie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of BBQ chicken, pasta, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or bow tie)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red bell peppers.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the bowl with the vegetables.
6. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top and toss to coat.
7. Toss in cooked pasta and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the tenderness of chicken and the zest of fresh herbs, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced chicken, cooked pasta, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the spicy kick of sriracha with juicy chicken and al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce and olive oil.
3. Add cooked chicken, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad combines the creaminess of pesto sauce with the juiciness of grilled chicken and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill chicken breast until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let cool before slicing into strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese.
4. Drizzle pesto sauce over the top and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Salad combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped parsley (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar; pour over the chicken mixture.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad
A creamy, savory, and satisfying pasta salad that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and juicy chicken with al dente pasta and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a cold salad.
Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad! A perfect blend of tangy, herby, and citrus flavors, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, and salt. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, parsley, lemon juice, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad
This Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and basil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the brightness of lime juice and cilantro with the tender bite of chicken and pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp. lime juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the chicken-cilantro mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad
A flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad, this Thai-inspired dish combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the savory sweetness of grilled chicken and crisp vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. Thai peanut sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine peanut sauce, peanuts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, salt, and pepper.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
6. Toss pasta with the salad mixture until well coated.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad combines cooked chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, spinach, artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Toss until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Salad
A flavorful and satisfying salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, pasta, and a savory sauce with a hint of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Curry Chicken Pasta Salad
A flavorful twist on classic pasta salad, this Curry Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, savory curry powder, and a medley of vegetables for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add curry powder to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
5. Add the curry chicken mixture on top of the vegetables and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle feta cheese crumbles on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dill Pickle Chicken Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the tanginess of dill pickle flavor with the richness of chicken and pasta, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup dill pickle juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pickle juice, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked chicken, chopped dill, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 creamy chicken pasta salad recipes! From classic Caesar to spicy Sriracha, and from Mediterranean to Thai Peanut, there’s a flavor combination to satisfy every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for tangy BBQ or refreshing lemon herb, these salads are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With a variety of ingredients and spices, you’ll find something to suit your palate. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these deliciously creamy chicken pasta salads!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
