Go Back
–+ servings
Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad

Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad: Your Fresh Summer Picnic Must-Have

Waldorf Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish, perfect for summer gatherings with savory chicken, juicy grapes, and crunchy almonds.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitution: Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
For the Pasta
  • 16 oz Bow Tie Pasta Cook to al dente for best results.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Diced Celery Substitution: Cucumber can be used for a lighter crunch.
  • 3-4 Green Onions, chopped Substitution: Regular onion can be used, but use sparingly.
  • 1 cup Sliced Almonds Substitution: Pecans or walnuts can also work well.
For the Dressing
  • 2 cups Real Mayonnaise Substitution: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh juice preferred for brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Coarse Ground Pepper Adjust to taste based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Substitution: Fresh parsley can be used for more vibrant taste.
For Sweetness
  • 2 cups Red Seedless Grapes, halved Can substitute with halved strawberries or candied nuts for variation.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cup
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Chicken: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove, drain, and cool completely before chopping.
  2. Prepare the Pasta: In the same pot, add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside to cool.
  3. Mix the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, diced celery, and green onions. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Prepare the Dressing: In a measuring cup, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, pepper, and parsley until smooth.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Pour dressing over chicken mixture and stir gently until well coated.
  6. Fold in Grapes and Pasta: Carefully fold in halved grapes, cooked pasta, and sliced almonds into the chicken mixture.
  7. Chill and Serve: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to cool completely before mixing to prevent wilting. Mix the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!