Mandarin Chicken Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is the perfect combination of sweet and savory with a burst of freshness. The juicy mandarin oranges pair perfectly with the savory chicken, while the crunch of celery and almonds adds a satisfying texture. The addition of dried cranberries brings a touch of sweetness, and the tangy poppy seed dressing ties everything together. It’s a great make-ahead option because it tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours. Plus, it’s ideal for warm weather, making it the perfect dish to serve at a summer gathering or enjoy as a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked bowtie pasta
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast
1 cup mandarin orange segments (drained if canned)
1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup poppy seed dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and chopped chicken.
Add Vegetables and Fruits:
Stir in the mandarin oranges, red bell pepper, celery, green onions, almonds, and dried cranberries.
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle with the poppy seed dressing and gently toss to combine.
Season:
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top before serving.
Chill:
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to marinate and develop.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add Protein: You can use grilled shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Change the Dressing: If you prefer a different flavor, you can use a vinaigrette or creamy dressing in place of the poppy seed dressing.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or even roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta if needed.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge!

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this salad tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours, so it’s perfect for meal prep or making the night before.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, rotini, or fusilli would all work great in this recipe.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based chicken or tofu and a dairy-free poppy seed dressing to make this a vegan dish.

4. Can I use fresh mandarins instead of canned?

Yes, fresh mandarins are a great option! Just peel and segment them before adding to the salad.

5. Can I substitute the poppy seed dressing?

You can substitute the poppy seed dressing with a simple vinaigrette or creamy dressing if you prefer a different flavor.

6. Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta.

7. Can I add more fruit to the salad?

Yes, you can add more fruit like sliced grapes, strawberries, or apples for a sweeter touch.

8. Can I freeze this salad?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately if needed. Just keep in mind that the texture of the salad may change once frozen and thawed.

9. What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish to any main course. It’s also great on its own for a light lunch or dinner.

10. Can I skip the nuts in this recipe?

Yes, if you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can omit them or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Conclusion

Mandarin Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a quick and refreshing meal, a dish to bring to a potluck, or a light dinner option. With its combination of juicy mandarins, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables, this salad is a flavorful and nutritious choice for any time of the year. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy!