Creamy Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Cooked Chicken, Peas, and Cheddar Cheese
This creamy and savory Bow Tie Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to bring to your next gathering or to prep for the week ahead.
With tender pasta, savory cooked chicken, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing, it’s a flavor-packed salad that’s quick, easy, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re making it for a picnic or simply want a hassle-free meal, this pasta salad hits the spot every time!
For Bow Tie Pasta Salad
- Bow Tie Pasta – The base of the salad, offering a fun and hearty texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Adds a sharp, creamy richness to the salad.
- Cooked Chicken – Provides a savory, protein-packed element.
- White Onion – Adds a bit of crunch and sharpness to the salad.
- Frozen Peas – Sweet and slightly crunchy, they balance out the rich ingredients.
- Red Bell Pepper – Brings a burst of color and mild sweetness for freshness.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base for the dressing.
- Sweet Relish – Provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dressing just the right amount.
- Yellow Mustard – Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance out the creaminess.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Chicken, Peas, and Cheddar Cheese
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Ingredients:
- 1 pound bow tie pasta
- 1 cup diced cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken (diced or shredded, preferably grilled or rotisserie chicken)
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped white onion
- ½ cup thawed frozen peas
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet relish
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet relish, sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced cheddar, cooked chicken, onion, peas, and red bell pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 524 kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 530mg | Potassium: 243mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 590 IU | Vitamin C: 15.8mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 1.3mg
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Sure thing! While bow tie pasta is ideal for this salad, feel free to swap it out for another shape like penne, fusilli, or rotini. Choose one that holds the dressing well and fits your personal preference!
2. How can I make this pasta salad in advance?
Absolutely! This pasta salad actually tastes even better after it’s chilled for a few hours, so prep it up to 24 hours ahead. Just make sure to cover it tightly and give it a good stir before serving.
3. Can I add extra veggies to the salad?
Of course! Feel free to toss in some extra veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, or even some shredded carrots. Just make sure to chop everything small so it blends seamlessly into the salad!
4. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
To prevent sticky pasta, drain it well and then toss it with a little olive oil once it’s cool. This will keep the pasta from clumping as you mix it with the other ingredients.
5. Is it necessary to refrigerate the salad before serving?
It’s not a must, but letting the salad chill for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together, making it even tastier. Plus, it’s the perfect make-ahead option for parties!
