This Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic club sandwich, combining tender rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies with a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite!
📋 Ingredients
- 8 ounces corkscrew-shaped pasta (rotini works great)
- ¾ cup Italian-style salad dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups chopped, cooked rotisserie chicken
- 12 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cubed Muenster cheese
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10–12 minutes .
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian-style dressing and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooled pasta , chopped chicken , crumbled bacon , halved cherry tomatoes , cubed Muenster cheese , chopped celery , green bell pepper , and chopped avocado to the bowl with the dressing.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado while mixing.
Step 4: Serve
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes if you prefer it cold, or serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal.
- Enjoy this hearty pasta salad as a main dish or side at your next gathering!
Tips for Success
- Pasta Substitution: Use any short pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or farfalle if corkscrew pasta isn’t available.
- Cheese Options: Swap Muenster cheese for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Include extras like diced red onion, shredded carrots, or sliced black olives for added crunch and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days . Note that the avocado may brown slightly over time—add fresh avocado when serving leftovers for best results.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad (without the avocado) up to a day in advance. Add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Club Pasta Salad brings all the flavors of a classic club sandwich into a refreshing and satisfying dish. The creamy dressing ties together the savory chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, while the avocado adds a buttery richness. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it at a summer barbecue, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Dive into this hearty, flavorful creation and let it brighten your table!
⏱ Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: ~27 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6–8 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~400 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and ingredients)
