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Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

An icon representing a clock 40 min | easy | Mediterranean diet | See also:  pescatarian alternative
Overhead view of a white bowl filled with creamy chicken pasta salad: penne coated in herb dressing, sliced grilled chicken with light char marks, chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, and thin red onion on a pale wood surface.

Recipe by Eunice Profile picture of Eunice Published Apr 1, 2026

Prep Time Cook Time Total Time
20 min 20 min 40 min
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Introduction

This creamy chicken pasta salad is hearty, fresh, and full of bright herby flavor from the tangy homemade dressing.

It is perfect for summer lunches, easy weeknight dinners, potlucks, and make-ahead meals for busy days.

Ingredients  (4 servings)

Adjust servings:

Ingredients for the Grilled Chicken

Ingredients for Salad

Ingredients for Creamy Herb Dressing

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Bowl of creamy chicken pasta salad with penne coated in herb dressing, sliced grilled chicken with light char marks, halved cherry tomatoes, thin red onion, and chopped romaine lettuce.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad

  1. Season the chicken

    Pat the chicken dry, then rub it with olive oil, Italian dressing mix, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

    Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you start the pasta.

  2. Cook the pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the penne until just tender.

    Drain the pasta well, but do not rinse it.

    Spread it on a tray for a few minutes so it stays slightly warm, not hot.

  3. Grill and slice the chicken

    Grill the chicken over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes per side.

    Cook until the thickest part reaches 165°F.

    Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then slice it into bite-size pieces.

  4. Mix the creamy herb dressing

    Whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, milk, olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, dressing mix, salt, and pepper.

    Let the dressing stand for 5 minutes so the seasoning fully dissolves.

  5. Assemble the salad

    In a large bowl, toss the slightly warm pasta with the dressing until every piece is coated.

    Add the sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, then toss again.

    Cover and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend well.

  6. Add lettuce and serve

    Fold in the chopped romaine just before serving so it stays crisp.

    Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Bowl of creamy chicken pasta salad made with penne, grilled chicken pieces, chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, and thin red onion slices, all coated in a pale herb dressing; a larger serving dish sits blurred in the background on a white wooden table.

Substitutions

Penne to rotini
Rotini holds creamy dressing very well and gives each bite a little more texture. The salad stays just as hearty and easy to serve.
Romaine to baby spinach
Baby spinach gives a softer bite and a slightly earthier flavor. It also keeps the salad fresh and colorful.
Cherry tomatoes to roasted red peppers
Roasted red peppers add sweet, smoky flavor and a silky texture. They make the salad feel a little bolder and more picnic-ready.
Overhead close-up of creamy chicken pasta salad in a white bowl, with penne coated in herb dressing, grilled chicken pieces with char marks, chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, and thin slices of red onion.

Tips

Salt the pasta water well
Well-seasoned pasta tastes better all the way through. That helps the finished salad stay flavorful even after chilling.
Cool the pasta briefly, not fully
Slightly warm pasta grabs the dressing better than cold pasta. It also absorbs more flavor without turning mushy.
Use a thermometer for the chicken
Chicken breast can dry out fast on the grill. Pulling it at 165°F keeps it juicy and safe.
Chill before serving
A short chill gives the dressing time to settle into the pasta. The salad tastes smoother and more balanced after resting.

Nutrition Facts *

Energy 645 kcal
Protein 42 g
Total Fat 23 g
Carbohydrates 68 g
Dietary Fiber 5 g

* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.

FAQ

Why does my pasta salad seem dry after chilling?
Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits in the fridge. Stir in a small splash of milk or lemon juice before serving.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it several hours ahead. Keep the romaine separate and fold it in right before serving.
What if I do not have a grill?
Cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. You can also bake it until it reaches 165°F.
How do I keep the lettuce from getting soggy?
Add the romaine only at the end. If storing leftovers, keep extra lettuce separate and mix it in fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken pasta salad works well with garlic bread, fresh fruit, or grilled corn for a simple summer meal.

Fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or diced cucumber add extra flavor and texture without changing the salad's easy style.

For a heartier version, add crumbled bacon or cubed cheddar right before serving.

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