Ultimate Chicken Club Pasta Salad
This hearty pasta salad combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, meal prep, picnics, or a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes
Serves: 4–5
Ingredients
For the salad:
3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the dressing:
½ cup Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise
2 tbsp ranch dressing (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta:
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
Prepare ingredients:
Cook turkey bacon until crispy and crumble.
Dice chicken, chop veggies, and prepare all add-ins.
Make dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), ranch (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble salad:
In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, turkey bacon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cheese.
Add dressing:
Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
Add lettuce last:
Gently fold in chopped romaine just before serving to keep it crisp.
Serve or chill:
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for best flavor.
Notes & Tips
Keep lettuce fresh: Add just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Meal prep tip: Store dressing separately if making ahead.
Extra crunch: Add croutons or sunflower seeds.
Healthier option: Use whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
Flavor boost: Add avocado or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! It’s a great time-saving option and adds extra flavor.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3 days, but keep lettuce separate for best texture.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo and reduce cheese slightly.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 400–450 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Carbohydrates: 30–35 g
Fiber: 3–4 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Sugar: 4–6 g
Sodium: 500–600 mg