Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s refreshingly flavorful, comforting, and perfect for warm days or casual gatherings, this Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped in a creamy, tangy dressing that’s brightened by crunchy vegetables and a hint of zesty mustard. This salad is not just easy to make; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that comes together in a cool, satisfying bowl you’ll want to dive into again and again. Whether for picnics, potlucks, or an everyday meal, Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad always hits the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the salad’s irresistible charm. From the tender chicken to the crisp vegetables and creamy dressing, every item adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color you’ll love.

• 3½ cups dried macaroni pasta: Choose elbow, cavatappi, or rigatoni for the perfect texture that holds the dressing well.
• 1½ pounds cooked white meat chicken breast: Cubed or shredded to add succulent protein that complements the pasta.
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, shells removed: These bring a creamy richness and soft texture for added depth.
• 1½ cups mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds all ingredients while giving a luscious mouthfeel.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and a bit of kick that brightens the flavor.
• ¼ cup dill relish: Brings a burst of sweet and tangy crunch that balances the creaminess.
• 2 stalks celery, diced: Contributes a refreshing crispness and a mild peppery bite.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and juicy sweetness to the salad.
• 5 green onions, sliced: Lends a mild oniony sharpness and lovely green color accents.
• 1 red onion, diced: Infuses the salad with a sharper, more pronounced onion flavor.
• 1 tablespoon seasoning salt: Essential for boosting all the flavors and adding that final savory touch.
• Paprika (to garnish, optional): A dusting at the end brightens the look and adds a gentle smoky note.

How to Make Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by boiling your macaroni pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s perfectly al dente – tender but still with a slight bite. This texture is key because it prevents the pasta from turning mushy once mixed with the dressing. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to immediately halt the cooking process and cool it down. Give it a good drain and set aside, ready for the creamy dressing that’s coming.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

Next, peel your hard-boiled eggs and chop or crumble them depending on your texture preference. These soft pieces will meld beautifully with the salad, lending a delicate creaminess and extra protein that makes every bite satisfying.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and dill relish. This trio creates a luscious and tangy dressing that’s the heart of the Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad. Make sure to blend them thoroughly so the flavors marry perfectly and every bite has that signature zest.

Step 4: Add the Veggies, Chicken, and Eggs

Now it’s time to add the vibrant, crunchy vegetables — the red bell pepper, red onion, celery, and green onions — along with your tender cooked chicken and chopped eggs. Folding these ingredients gently into the dressing ensures each component is well-coated without breaking apart the delicate textures.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Refrigerate

Finally, fold the cooled pasta into the mixture, combining everything evenly so each bite bursts with flavor. Transfer your salad to a refrigerator-safe serving dish, cover with foil, and chill for at least two hours or overnight. This step makes sure all the tastes meld beautifully, and the salad is served refreshingly cold — just how Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad should be enjoyed!

How to Serve Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of paprika over the top right before serving adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of smoky warmth that contrasts beautifully with the creamy tanginess of the salad. You can also use fresh chopped parsley or chives for a bright, fresh finish.

Side Dishes

This Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like smoky barbecue chicken or seared steaks. It’s also fantastic alongside crunchy vegetable sticks, fresh fruit slices, or a crusty bread to round out the meal for any picnic or casual lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual clear cups or mason jars for a charming and easy-to-handle portion at parties. For a fun twist, scoop the salad into hollowed-out bell peppers or lettuce leaves as edible bowls that add both flair and additional texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad chilled in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a convenient, ready-to-eat option for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated as freezing can alter the texture of the mayonnaise and the pasta. To maintain the best taste and consistency, avoid freezing your Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dish best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply give any refrigerated leftovers a gentle stir and serve immediately for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes a quick and flavorful shortcut that’s perfect for this recipe. Just be sure to remove the skin and shred or cube the meat before folding it in.

Is there a way to make this salad lighter?

You can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and a little mayo to reduce fat while keeping creaminess. This also adds a pleasant tang that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! Chopped cucumbers, peas, or shredded carrots would all make delightful additions, boosting color and crunch without overpowering the classic taste.

How far in advance can I prepare Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad?

Preparing the salad up to a day before serving is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, but try to avoid making it more than 24 hours ahead to keep the textures fresh and vibrant.

What type of mustard works best in this recipe?

Dijon mustard is preferred for its smooth, mildly spicy profile that complements the creamy dressing. However, you could also experiment with whole grain mustard if you like a bit more texture and punch.

Final Thoughts

This Cold Chicken Macaroni Salad is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite because it’s so delicious, versatile, and easy to whip up. It’s the perfect dish to bring an element of comfort and freshness to any table. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones — trust me, it’s nothing short of delightful!

Print