This Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is a yummy mix of tender chicken, pasta, and crunchy apples. Tossed with creamy dressing, it’s both tasty and filling!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how the apples add a sweet crunch to every bite. Perfect for lunch or a picnic—and you can make it ahead of time, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using farfalle or rotini for great texture. If you have leftovers, cooked elbow macaroni or penne can work too. Gluten-free pasta is a suitable alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use leftover roasted chicken or boil chicken breasts until cooked through. Just shred them before adding to the salad.
Grapes: Red grapes are sweet and juicy but, you could easily swap in green grapes or even diced apples for a different crunch and flavor. Diced pears are another tasty substitution!
Mayonnaise: While classic mayo is best known, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Vegan mayo or even a mix of tahini and water can work for dairy-free options. Experiment and see what you like!
Almonds: Toasted sliced almonds add a lovely crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a similar texture. You can also try chopped walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing combines the creamy goodness of mayonnaise with a zesty kick from Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Getting this right is vital for flavoring the salad. Here’s how to make it easy:
- In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Add salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy; this is where flavor builds!
- Whisk until everything is mixed well and smooth. Taste it; you can adjust seasoning if needed.
Pour this dressing over the salad ingredients gently. Toss it carefully to avoid breaking up the pasta or grapes. Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes helps combine all those delicious flavors even more!
How to Make Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (farfalle or rotini works well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is perfect)
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted if desired)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour for chilling in the refrigerator. So, in total, you should set aside at least 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, halved grapes, chopped celery, and sliced almonds. Gently stir everything together with a big spoon, ensuring that it’s well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors of your salad together!
3. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure it looks colorful and delicious!
4. Chill and Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help the flavors combine beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, take it out of the fridge. Give it a quick stir, and it’s ready to be served chilled! Enjoy this refreshing meal or use it as a delightful side dish.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle or rotini are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or shells. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions until al dente for the best texture.
Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid mayo, you can use Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing instead. If using yogurt, mix in a bit of lemon juice or mustard for flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed for the best taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as it might thicken slightly.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Waldorf chicken pasta salad by adding ingredients like diced apples, dried cranberries, or even chopped walnuts for extra crunch. Just keep the ingredient ratios in mind to maintain balance!
