This Summery Chicken Pasta Salad is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm days! It combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and pasta for a fun meal.
It’s so refreshing that you’ll feel like you’re on vacation with every bite! I love making this ahead of time; it gets even better as it chills, just like those summer vibes! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: Bowtie pasta adds a fun shape to the salad. If you can’t find farfalle, replace it with any short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta can hold the dressing well!
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian or want to skip the meat, chickpeas or tofu can be great swaps that add protein!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you prefer, try grape tomatoes or even diced bell peppers for a crunchy texture.
Cucumber: Diced cucumber brings in freshness. Zucchini could work instead, or you could use cooked broccoli for a different vibe.
Bacon Bits: These add a savory crunch. For a healthier option, try turkey bacon or skip it entirely! Toasted nuts like walnuts or seeds can add crunch too.
Italian Dressing: Feel free to use a homemade version using olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices. If you want it creamier, opt for a ranch or yogurt-based dressing!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Mixing the salad properly is key to a harmonious flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. It’s best to layer them; start with the pasta at the bottom.
- Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss everything to coat evenly, making sure each ingredient is well-integrated.
- Season with salt and pepper after mixing. This way, you can adjust the flavor without overdoing it.
- Let it chill! The salad tastes better if it rests for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, allowing the flavors to blend.
How to Make Summery Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (cooked)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend a little time cooking the pasta and mixing everything together, then just let it chill so all the yummy flavors blend together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the instructions on the package. You want it to be nice and al dente, which means it’ll have a little bite to it. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the shredded or cubed chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, corn, bacon bits, chopped parsley, and finely chopped red onion. It’s like a colorful party in a bowl!
3. Add Dressing and Season:
Drizzle the Italian dressing over your pasta salad and gently toss everything together until it’s all evenly coated. Make sure each bite will be delicious! Then, season with salt and pepper to taste—just sprinkle a little, mix, and taste until it’s just right for you.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and chill your pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply dish it out and enjoy your refreshing summery chicken pasta salad! It’s perfect for a hot day or a fun picnic!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the alternative pasta.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify, making it even more delicious the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance—just wait to add the dressing until a few hours before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian Dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing, you can make a simple vinaigrette by mixing olive oil, vinegar (like red wine or balsamic), garlic, and some Italian herbs. This alternative will add a nice zesty flavor to your salad!
