Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
When I whipped up this honey mustard chicken pasta salad, I knew it was an instant keeper! The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing made every bite a delight. What I love the most is how simple yet versatile it is to prepare.
With a quick mix of fresh ingredients and flavors, it’s a dish perfect for meal prep or sharing at gatherings. Trust me, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a party, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that you will make again and again.
Credit: dishingouthealth
Ingredients
- 1 pound of small pasta of your choice
- 1 pound of asparagus, trimmed and sliced into 2-inch diagonal pieces
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- ½ cup radishes, thinly sliced into half-moons
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 3 cups cooked and cubed chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped tarragon (or ¼ cup fresh parsley)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
Note: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Variations
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas to adapt it to your preferences:
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or cannellini beans.
- Vegan: Use plant-based mayo and skip the chicken, or replace it with marinated tofu.
- Gluten-free: Use rice-based or chickpea pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Extra crunch: Add sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.
- Not a fan of radishes? Substitute with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or shredded carrots.
You can also enjoy similar dishes like the Honey Mustard Chicken and Potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large pot: For cooking the pasta and blanching vegetables.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients and dressing.
- Whisk or jar: To mix the dressing smoothly.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping the veggies and herbs.
- Colander: To drain pasta effectively.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta Salad?
This salad comes together quickly and is sure to wow anyone who tries it. Follow these easy steps for a fresh, flavorful dish.
Cook the Pasta and Veggies
Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook it until al dente, as per the package instructions. During the last minute of cooking, toss in the asparagus and peas to blanch them. This method keeps the veggies vibrant and crunchy. Once drained, rinse everything under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Slice and Crisp the Radishes
While the pasta cools, slice the radishes thinly and place them in a bowl of ice water. This step makes the radishes extra crisp and refreshing before tossing them into the salad.
Make the Honey Mustard Dressing
Whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl or jar. Add salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should be creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, asparagus, peas, radishes, arugula, chopped chicken, chives, and tarragon. Then drizzle the honey mustard dressing evenly over the top. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating.
Chill and Serve
The salad can be served immediately at room temperature or chilled for later. If preparing ahead of time, mix in the arugula just before serving to keep it fresh.
Credit: dishingouthealth
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe is packed with perks that make it a must-try. Here’s why:
- Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep or potlucks.
- Loaded with flavor: A perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory.
- Super colorful: A visually stunning platter with vibrant veggies.
- Easy to customize: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
You can also enjoy similar dishes like the Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders for a wholesome meal idea.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken Pasta Salad?
Presentation can make a simple salad shine. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Platter style: Arrange the salad on a wide, shallow dish for an elegant look.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra chives, tarragon, or lemon zest for added flair.
- Pair with crusty bread: Serve alongside slices of warm sourdough or garlic bread.
- Add a bowl of fresh greens: To complement the flavors of the pasta salad.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate of the nutrients for one serving of this salad:
- Calories: 387
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 15g
Make Ahead and Storage
This pasta salad is perfect for making in advance and storing for later.
To prepare ahead, combine all the salad components except the arugula, and store the dressing separately. Mix everything together just before serving to keep it fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. Before serving, add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil to refresh the flavors.
Tips for Making the Recipe
I’ve learned a few helpful tricks to make this recipe even better, and I’m sharing them with you:
- Don’t overcook the pasta or asparagus: They should have a slight bite for the best texture.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the dressing with more honey or mustard if needed.
- Add dressing gradually: You can always add more, but too much dressing can overwhelm the salad.
- Make it your own: Experiment with seasonal veggies or additional herbs like dill.
What Are the Five Mistakes to Avoid with Pasta Salad?
Pasta salad seems easy, but there are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the pasta: It can turn mushy in the salad. Always cook it al dente.
- Not seasoning the water: Salt is essential during cooking to flavor your pasta.
- Skipping the rinse step: Rinsing pasta prevents clumping and cools it for the salad.
- Overdressing: Too much dressing can make the pasta soggy. Add in stages.
- Making it too dry: On the flip side, don’t skimp on the dressing either; you want it just right.
What Is the Secret to a Great Pasta Salad?
The key to a fantastic pasta salad lies in using fresh, colorful ingredients and a well-balanced dressing. The honey mustard dressing brings tang, sweetness, and creaminess to every bite. Using al dente pasta, vibrant veggies, and fresh herbs ensures every forkful is a delight. Finally, tossing the salad gently and evenly spreads the flavors without squishing or bruising the ingredients.
Honey mustard chicken pasta salad is more than just a simple dish; it’s a flavorful, hearty, and versatile meal you’ll make time and time again. Enjoy!
For more creative ideas, you might enjoy exploring Steak Recipes that offer bold flavors and variety.
