Easy Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe Your Family Will Love
Chicken macaroni salad recipe: A creamy, savory dish combining tender chicken, macaroni, and crisp vegetables in a light, tangy dressing. Perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Lunch, Main Dishes, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 350 kcal
Preparing "chicken macaroni salad recipe" requires the following tools:
Large pot for cooking pasta
Colander (for draining pasta)
Large Mixing Bowl
Small Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Chef's knife
Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta, cooled
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: Ensure the cooked chicken is diced into bite-sized pieces. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken offers a convenient option.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled macaroni, diced chicken, celery, and red onion.
Step 4: Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the macaroni and chicken mixture. Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
For a tangier salad, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar. To reduce the calorie content, use light mayonnaise. Diced bell peppers or hard-boiled eggs can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
The fundamental “chicken macaroni salad recipe” lends itself to numerous adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps: Substitute rotisserie chicken with grilled or baked chicken breasts. Greek yogurt can partially replace mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. Add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for enhanced texture and flavor.
- Regional Twists: Introduce a Southern influence by adding chopped pecans and a dash of hot sauce. A Hawaiian variation might include pineapple chunks and ham.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free macaroni. Vegan mayonnaise alternatives can easily transform the recipe into a plant-based dish. Reduce sugar content by using a sugar substitute or omitting it altogether.
Serving Suggestions
“Chicken macaroni salad recipe” is versatile and suitable for diverse occasions. Serve it chilled as a side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or picnics. It functions well as a light lunch or as a component of a larger buffet spread. Consider pairing it with grilled sandwiches, burgers, or alongside a bowl of soup.
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, store “chicken macaroni salad recipe” in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 3-4 days. Note that the salad may become slightly drier as it sits; a small amount of mayonnaise can be added to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as this can negatively impact the texture of the mayonnaise and pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the salad be made ahead of time? The “chicken macaroni salad recipe” can be prepared a day in advance. Flavors meld together during refrigeration, often enhancing the taste.
- Question 2: Is it possible to reduce the amount of mayonnaise? Reducing the mayonnaise is feasible. Consider substituting a portion with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter consistency.
- Question 3: What if the salad tastes bland? If the salad lacks flavor, ensure adequate seasoning with salt and pepper. A small amount of Dijon mustard or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the tanginess.
- Question 4: Can other types of pasta be used? Elbow macaroni is traditional, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can be substituted.