Macaroni Salad with Chicken Breast: Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, this chicken breast macaroni salad is a tasty and satisfying option. It combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a mix of fresh vegetables in a creamy dressing. This recipe is perfect for picnics or as a hearty family meal for everyone. Packed with protein and carbs and bursting with flavor, this macaroni salad will become a favorite in your recipe collection because of its ease of preparation, the ability to customize it to your liking, and the fact that it tastes good to just about everyone. If you also prepare some good soup or a fresh vegetable salad in addition, then this salad is guaranteed to serve as a main dish as well. Wondering if you have to use elbow macaroni? No, you don’t have to, but believe me, this type of pasta is really the best shape for salads.

Recipe

Ingredients in this recipe

For the Salad

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup peas (fresh or thawed)
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or other herbs to taste

For the Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni or other pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.

Step 2

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet to medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 7 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C). Allow the cooked chicken to cool slightly, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chopped chicken, celery, bell pepper, red onion, peas, grated carrot, and chopped parsley or other herbs to your taste.

Step 4

• In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste, or add any spices you like.

Step 5

• Pour the dressing over the macaroni and chicken mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.

Step 6

• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with additional herbs as desired for extra flavor and a fresh appearance.

Tips for the Perfect Macaroni Salad with Chicken Breast

• Add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or corn.
• This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Overnight, its flavors will meld perfectly.
• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.