This Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy apples, and sweet grapes with delightful pasta. It’s a refreshing mix of flavors and textures!
This salad is perfect for lunch or a picnic. I always make extra because I can’t resist those yummy bites! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used bow tie pasta for its fun shape, but you can swap it for penne, rotini, or any pasta you love. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may vary.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver! You can also use leftover chicken or turkey if you have some on hand. For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas or tofu instead.
Grapes: Red seedless grapes add sweetness; however, green grapes or diced apples work well too! Apples add a nice crunch, just toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Mayonnaise and Yogurt: I like the creaminess of both mayo and Greek yogurt. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use avocado or substitute with a vegan mayo or yogurt for a plant-based version.
How Do You Make Sure Your Salad Is Well-Mixed?
Mixing the salad well is key for a balanced flavor. Start with your dressing in a large bowl, so there’s plenty of space to mix. When adding ingredients, layer them: start with chicken and grapes, then add the pasta and celery. This helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Use two forks or spoons for tossing. Gently lift and turn the ingredients to mix, instead of stirring vigorously, which can break the pasta.
- After mixing, taste for seasoning. Add a pinch of salt or more honey if it’s too tangy.
Chilling it for 30 minutes helps the flavors blend well, making each bite delicious!
Easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 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 tbsp honey or to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp dried tarragon or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just a little over 40 minutes, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once it’s done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water. This helps cool it down and stops the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to allow it to cool completely.
2. Toast the Almonds:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast them by stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn! Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it is smooth and creamy. This dressing will add a delightful flavor to the salad!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Now it’s time to combine! Add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, and cooled pasta into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently, taking care to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
5. Adjust Flavors:
Give your salad a taste. If it needs more flavor, feel free to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or a bit more honey to suit your preference.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge. If you’d like, sprinkle some dried tarragon or fresh parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and a nice presentation!
Enjoy this refreshing and easy Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad as a light lunch or side dish! It’s sure to be a hit! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it into small pieces for easy mixing.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can replace mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt or use an avocado-based dressing for a creamy, healthier twist!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to re-mix the ingredients!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use vegan mayo instead of regular mayo, and replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Enjoy this fresh twist!
