Name: Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: . Pasta and Salad Ingredients; 8 ounces farfalle pasta ((white or whole wheat) (225 grams)); 2 cups cooked chicken ((chopped) (300 grams)); 2 ounces baby spinach leaves ((100 grams)); 1 11 ounce can mandarin oranges ((drained)); 1/2 cup dried cranberries ((60 grams)); 2 green onions ((chopped)); 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese ((30 grams)); 1/3 cup slivered almonds ((toasted, 30 grams)); . Dressing Ingredients; 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 Tablespoons plain Greek yogurt ((or mayonnaise)); 2 teaspoons dijon mustard; 3 Tablespoons honey; Zest from 1 orange and lemon; Juice from 1/2 orange and lemon; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Looking for a vibrant and tasty dish? This Chicken Pasta Salad is your answer! Packed with flavors and textures, it makes for a perfect meal or side.

Why You'll Love It

This salad is not only refreshing but also super easy to make. Trust me, the combination of juicy mandarin oranges and crunchy almonds is so satisfying!

Tips for Perfection

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or nuts. Enjoy it fresh or chill for a while for even more flavor!

Ingredients

Instructions

Make the Dressing:
Step 1

Make dressing by combining all ingredients and whisking until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Pasta:
Step 2

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Assemble the Salad:
Step 3

Assemble: Add pasta to a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup dressing and toss to combine. Add chicken, spinach, mandarin oranges, craisins, green onion, parmesan cheese, and toasted almonds and toss.
Finish and Serve:
Step 4

Drizzle dressing over the top (to taste, you may not want to use it all), and toss everything to combine. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 350, Fat: 15g, Carbs: 40g, Protein: 25g

Cooking techniques

This recipe involves boiling pasta and combining ingredients to create a fresh salad.

Variations or substitutions

Try substituting grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken, or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch!

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully!

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep and is full of nutrients!