Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad

Lemon chicken pasta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon, succulent chicken, and tender pasta tossed together with an array of colorful vegetables and aromatic herbs. 

This delightful salad is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fresh elements, making it a fantastic option for picnics, potlucks, or even a light and satisfying meal on its own. With its bright and citrusy notes, it’s sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. 

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Can I make lemon chicken pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make lemon chicken pasta salad ahead of time. In fact, preparing it in advance can be a great time-saving option for busy schedules or when hosting gatherings. 

What type of chicken should I use for this salad?

You can use any type of chicken meat that you want, but this recipe is using a whole rotisserie chicken. If you prefer white meat vs dark meat (or vice versa), make it however you like!

If you like pasta salads, you may also appreciate these recipes:

Pea & Pasta Salad

Pineapple Pasta Salad

Pickle Pasta Salad Recipe

Copycat Ruby Tuesday Pasta Salad Recipe

Is chicken pasta salad a full meal or a side dish?

That’s up to you! If you want something that’s more light for lunch or dinner you can definitely just enjoy this salad. However, you can also enjoy it as a side dish. This would particularly compliment a BBQ main dish!

What do I need to make lemon chicken pasta salad?

• Elbow macaroni
• Rotisserie chicken
• Celery
• Red bell pepper (Not shown in the ingredients photo)
• Mayonnaise
• Ranch salad dressing mix
• Fresh dill
• Lemon juice

Helpful tools for this recipe

• Mixing bowls
• Cooking pot
• Whisk
• Airtight container
• Knife set
• Cutting board

How to make lemon chicken pasta salad?

First, in a large mixing bowl, add the macaroni, chicken, and celery. 

Then in a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and ranch dressing. Whisk together until well combined. 

Now fold in the mayonnaise mixture into the large bowl. 

Toss until ingredients are well covered.

Finally, sprinkle red bell pepper on top. Fold in if desired.

How can I store chicken pasta salad?

To store chicken pasta salad, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. It is recommended to consume the salad within 2-3 days of preparation. Before serving any leftover salad, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and flavors. If the salad appears dry, you can add a little more dressing to revive the moisture. 

Can I use a different type of pasta?

For sure! If you prefer another type of pasta or notice that you don’t have any elbow macaroni on hand, you can substitute it for another type of pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package!

Making a lemon chicken pasta salad is a delightful culinary adventure that brings together the bright and zesty flavors of lemon, chicken, and tender pasta.

This refreshing salad is not only a perfect choice for picnics, potlucks, or light meals, but it can also be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to save valuable time and enjoy the convenience of having a delicious dish ready when you need it. By following the simple steps in this recipe, you can create a vibrant and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Other salad recipes to try

Strawberry Pretzel Salad without Jello

Cherry Fluff Salad

Tortellini Salad Recipe