Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that combines the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors! This Fancy Chicken Pecan Pasta Salad is not just another ordinary side dish – it's a culinary adventure that will transform your meal from mundane to magnificent. Imagine tender shredded chicken, crisp pecans, and al dente pasta dancing together in a creamy Dijon-mayo dressing that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of salted boiling water, and cook the pasta until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- While the pasta is cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans and diced celery. Toss them together to ensure they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate large bowl, prepare the dressing by mixing together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken to the dressing and mix until the chicken is well coated.
- Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the chicken and dressing mixture. Gently fold in the pecans and celery until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, mixing gently to incorporate.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the pasta salad a final stir before serving. This dish can be served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Tips
- Always rinse your pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad to enhance their nutty taste.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add more depth of flavor.
- Allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.
- This salad tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make it in advance!
- Feel free to add additional herbs like fresh parsley or chives for an extra pop of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
