This Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy apples, juicy grapes, and crisp celery, all mixed with pasta for a fun twist! It’s creamy, tasty, and full of color.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Bow tie pasta is a fun choice, but feel free to use any short pasta you like, such as rotini or penne. They all work well in salads and hold the dressing nicely!
Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken if you have some on hand. This salad is a great way to repurpose cooked chicken!
Grapes: Red seedless grapes add sweetness, but green grapes work too if you prefer a tarter taste. Diced apples can also be a tasty substitution for added crunch.
Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess without being too heavy. If you’re avoiding dairy, a dairy-free yogurt alternative can be a great substitution—just make sure it’s plain!
Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch, but walnuts or pecans bring a deeper flavor. You can also leave them out if you’re nut-free.
How Do I Make Sure The Dressing Coats Everything Evenly?
Getting the perfect dressing mix is key for a flavorful salad! Here are some tips:
- Mix the dressing separately before adding it to the salad to ensure it’s well combined.
- Add the dressing gradually. Start with half, toss, and then add more as needed for the right creaminess.
- Make sure your pasta is cool before mixing it in to avoid wilting the other ingredients.
- Toss gently while combining to avoid breaking the pasta or grapes!
Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly, and then let it sit while you prepare the rest of your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, and toasted sliced almonds. This mix brings together great flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully.
3. Make Your Creamy Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, dried tarragon (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is combined and creamy!
4. Mix Everything Together:
Add the cooled pasta to the chicken mixture. Then, pour the dressing over everything and gently toss it to coat all the ingredients evenly. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a little taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it just right for your palate!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together, making it even tastier.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the salad into a bowl and enjoy it chilled. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle some more toasted almonds on top if you like!
This Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, combining classic Waldorf elements with hearty chicken and pasta for a satisfying and refreshing meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken For This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly for this salad, making it a great way to repurpose food. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces before mixing it in!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Another great alternative is avocado for a healthy fat boost!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made.
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients. You might add chopped apples for extra crunch, dried cranberries for sweetness, or even some diced chicken breast for added protein!
