Description
A delicious and refreshing Chicken Pasta Salad tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing. This dish combines tender cooked chicken, farfalle pasta, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries for a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for a light lunch or potluck.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (bow-tie)
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts (skinless, boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup pecans (toasted, chopped)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
- 4 green onions (chopped)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken thoroughly until no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until smooth and well combined. Season with salt to taste.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, sliced chicken, toasted chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and chopped green onions. Pour the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust salt as needed.
Notes
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until aromatic for enhanced flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- To add more freshness, consider adding chopped celery or cucumber.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken pasta salad, poppy seed dressing, farfalle pasta recipe, easy pasta salad, summer salad, picnic salad
