Orange Pineapple Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of fruit with the savory flavors of tender chicken and pasta. This colorful salad features juicy chunks of pineapple and orange mixed with perfectly cooked chicken and pasta, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light and satisfying meal any time of year. This salad can be prepared ahead of time and is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, pineapple, mandarin oranges, red bell pepper, red onion, celery, and almonds or pecans if using. Toss gently to combine.
- Add the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the salad chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or mint if desired.
Orange Pineapple Chicken Pasta Salad is a deliciously refreshing dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this salad is a versatile and delightful addition to any meal!
