Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Chicken
Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Chicken (Creamy, Flavor-Packed & Perfect for Any Occasion)
If you love quick, creamy, and flavor-loaded pasta salads, this Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Chicken will instantly become your go-to recipe. It’s hearty, colorful, and incredibly satisfying featuring tender bow tie pasta, savory cooked chicken, crisp veggies, sharp cheddar, and a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, lunches, meal prep, or easy weeknight dinners, this salad comes together in just 30 minutes and tastes even better chilled. Whether you want something comforting or refreshing, this pasta salad is always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Bow Tie Pasta Salad
- Creamy & comforting: Every bite is rich, tangy, and perfectly seasoned.
- Protein-packed: Chicken and cheese make it filling and satisfying.
- Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that always disappears fast.
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 30 minutes ideal for busy days.
- Make-ahead friendly: Gets even better after chilling.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap pasta shapes, or adjust flavors to your liking.
Crispy Sheet Pan Chicken Caesar Salad
Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Caesar Salad with roasted chicken, crispy croutons, and charred romaine. A fast 30-minute one-pan dinner full of flavor.
Notes
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper
Croutons
- 3 cups bread cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper
Salad
- 3 romaine hearts (halved lengthwise)
- ½ cup shaved Parmesan
- ½–¾ cup Caesar dressing
- Lemon wedges
- Use day-old bread for the crispiest croutons.
- Keep an eye on romaine slight char is perfect.
- Add protein twists: shrimp, salmon, or seasoned tofu.
- Keep dressing separate for meal prep.
- Chicken: 3–4 days refrigerated
- Croutons: Store separately to prevent sogginess
- Romaine: Best fresh but lasts 1 day if undressed
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Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is ideal for this salad, you can swap it with penne, fusilli, or rotini. Choose a pasta shape that holds the dressing well. - How far in advance can I make this pasta salad?
This salad actually tastes better after it chills for a few hours, making it perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, just cover tightly and stir before serving. - Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Cucumbers, tomatoes, shredded carrots, or even corn work wonderfully. Chop them finely so they blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. - How do I prevent pasta from sticking?
Drain the pasta well after cooking and toss with a small amount of olive oil before mixing with other ingredients. This keeps it from clumping. - Do I need to refrigerate before serving?
While not mandatory, chilling for at least an hour enhances the flavor and makes this salad ideal for parties or picnics.
Conclusion
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad with chicken, peas, and cheddar cheese is a classic, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Its combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing makes it perfect for any occasion—from casual lunches to festive gatherings.
The best part? It’s highly versatile. You can swap pasta shapes, add extra veggies, or tweak the dressing to suit your taste. Make it ahead of time for an effortless meal that’s ready whenever you are. This pasta salad is not just a recipe; it’s a reliable, delicious solution for busy days and entertaining guests alike.
Enjoy this creamy, hearty, and colorful Bow Tie Pasta Salad at your next event, and watch it become a family favorite!
