Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and pasta, all tossed in a delicious Asian-inspired dressing. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing meal on its own!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or bowtie)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or peanuts (for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Timing

Making Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for chilling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, shredded carrots, diced red bell pepper, snow peas, green onions, and cilantro (if using). Toss gently to combine.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. Whisk Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced ginger, minced garlic, and sesame seeds (if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing

1. Pour Dressing Over Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and sprinkle with sliced almonds or peanuts for added crunch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	20g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	36g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as cucumber, broccoli, or edamame.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Noodle Options: You can use Asian noodles like soba or rice noodles instead of pasta for a different texture.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits!

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad is a delicious and colorful dish that brings together the flavors of Asia in a refreshing salad. It’s perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or a light lunch, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection!

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this salad.