Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Salad: A Flavorful and Nutritious Delight

Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Salad: A Flavorful and Nutritious Delight

Introduction

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Salad, a dish that harmoniously combines the tender succulence of chicken, the fresh crispness of broccoli, and the comforting bite of pasta. This recipe is a testament to the art of blending flavors and textures, offering not only a delicious meal but also a well-rounded nutritional profile. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a vibrant side dish, this pasta salad is both satisfying and healthy. Dive into the detailed steps below to create this flavorful masterpiece that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups penne pasta (weighed dry)
• 1.5 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup 0% plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup fat-free sour cream
• 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Dash of salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. You can substitute with rotini or macaroni if preferred. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice the celery and red onion. Add the chopped vegetables, shredded chicken, and sliced almonds to the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, fat-free sour cream, light mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and add a dash of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully integrated.

4. Combine the Salad

Gently fold the dressing mixture into the pasta and vegetable blend. Ensure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the salad.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Tips

• Substitution Options: Feel free to use rotini or macaroni pasta if you prefer a different shape. The cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of pasta used.
• Add More Crunch: For extra crunch, you can incorporate other nuts such as walnuts or pecans in place of almonds.
• Enhance the Flavor: If you enjoy a bit more tang, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar to the dressing.
• Protein Variations: Substitute the shredded chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
A: If you prefer not to use Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with additional fat-free sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended for this pasta salad as it may affect the texture of the pasta and vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

Q: How can I make this salad more filling?
A: To make the salad more substantial, consider adding additional protein such as grilled chicken strips, tofu, or even some cooked bacon bits.

Q: Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it into individual servings and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for several days.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 171
• Total Fat: 5.4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7g
• Carbohydrates: 22.1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2.2g
• Protein: 8.2g

Conclusion

Our Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste, texture, and nutrition. With its combination of lean chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it offers a balanced and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty lunch or a side at a family gathering, this salad stands out for its flavor and health benefits. Embrace the ease of preparation and the joy of eating a wholesome dish that aligns with your dietary goals. Enjoy every delightful bite of this well-crafted recipe!