Merken This BLT Chicken Pasta Salad is the ultimate comfort food turned into a fresh, vibrant meal. By combining the smoky crunch of bacon with juicy cherry tomatoes and tender grilled chicken, this dish reimagines the classic sandwich as a hearty pasta bowl. It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully as a satisfying lunch or a crowd-pleasing side for your next gathering.
Merken What makes this salad truly stand out is the harmony of textures. The soft pasta shells are the perfect vessel for the creamy mayo and Greek yogurt dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful. With the added zest of lemon and the punch of Dijon mustard, it’s a refreshing take on a traditional pasta salad that doesn't feel overly heavy.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
- 2 cups (250 g) cooked grilled chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1 ½ cups (90 g) romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup (60 g) red onion, finely diced (optional)
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) light mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, whisk together light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Step 3
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using).
- Step 4
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Step 5
- Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To make the preparation as smooth as possible, ensure you have a large pot for the pasta and a grill pan or skillet ready for the chicken and bacon. Using a whisk for the dressing ensures the spices and mustard are perfectly integrated. A sharp knife and a large mixing bowl are your best friends for getting the vegetables and tossing the salad together efficiently.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this salad to suit your preferences. For a richer texture, try adding diced avocado or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. If you're looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon is an excellent substitute that still provides that essential smoky flavor. For vegetarians, simply omit the meat or replace it with a plant-based protein alternative.
Serviervorschläge
This BLT Chicken Pasta Salad is best served alongside a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep; just remember to keep the lettuce separate until you're ready to eat to maintain its crunch. Whether it's a picnic, a potluck, or a quiet lunch at home, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Merken Enjoy this delightful blend of textures and classic American flavors. With its easy preparation and satisfying results, this BLT Chicken Pasta Salad is bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Bon appétit!
