When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing and satisfying pasta salad to enjoy for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at a picnic or barbecue. Our Kraft Chicken Pasta Salad recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is not just delicious but also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into crafting this scrumptious and versatile recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household.
**Kraft Chicken Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz. tri-color rotini pasta
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red onion, bell peppers, cucumber, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley.
3. Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl and gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. You can adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for an extra pop of flavor and color.
9. Serve the Kraft Chicken Pasta Salad chilled and enjoy it as a tasty standalone meal or as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or sandwiches.
Remember, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding or swapping ingredients such as diced avocado, crispy bacon bits, or a hint of spicy jalapeños. This versatile pasta salad can also be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings with family and friends. With its vibrant colors, creamy dressing, and satisfying textures, this Kraft Chicken Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any occasion. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious dish!
