Description
A creamy and hearty macaroni pasta salad loaded with tender cooked chicken, crisp celery, and sweet red bell pepper, all tossed in a tangy, mayonnaise-based dressing. This salad is perfect for a refreshing, satisfying meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish at gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad
- 3 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and mustard. Whisk together until smooth and evenly blended.
- Mix the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked macaroni, diced chicken, celery, and red bell pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss to coat evenly: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the creamy dressing.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing gently to distribute the seasoning.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Notes
- Use rotini or elbow macaroni for best texture and sauce adherence.
- Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent mushy salad.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Optional additions: diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped pickles for a tangy twist.
- Make ahead by preparing the salad a day in advance to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
