Cookwith

Name: Cool Chicken Pasta Salad for a Hot Day
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta (about 8 oz dry); 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup carrots, grated or thinly sliced; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cool Chicken Pasta Salad for a Hot Day

miradugm

This Cool Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for a hot day in the redwoods—refreshing, colorful, and satisfying for both kids and adults. Using simple, kid-approved ingredients from a community store, it combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp veggies with a creamy, tangy dressing. The salad is easy to make ahead, portable for picnics, and visually appealing with pops of color from the veggies. It’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken and is endlessly customizable based on what’s available. Enjoy a chilled, hearty lunch that keeps everyone happy and cool.

Ingredients

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and cheddar cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at cool room temperature.