Transform your picnics with our unforgettable macaroni salad with chicken recipe

Macaroni salad with chicken is a classic summer staple that combines the refreshing crunch of macaroni with the savory flavors of chicken. This recipe will guide you through every step to create a delectable dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the celery, onion, red bell pepper, and cucumber into small pieces.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, corn, black beans, parsley, and cilantro.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Combine the Dressing and Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine.
6. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor. Serve chilled.

Variations:

• Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
• Use Different Vegetables: Swap out the celery, onion, or red bell pepper for other vegetables like carrots, peas, or zucchini.
• Add Bacon: Cook and crumble 4 slices of bacon and add them to the salad for a smoky touch.
• Make it Spicy: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a kick.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or burgers.
• Pack it for picnics, potlucks, or lunches.
• Top with additional parsley, cilantro, or grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: Perfectly complement the salad with grilled chicken breasts or thighs.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of watermelon, berries, or grapes for a refreshing contrast.
• Cornbread: Enjoy a slice of buttery cornbread alongside the salad for a classic summer combination.

Tips:

• Use a high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
• Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Chop the vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking and presentation.
• Allow the salad to chill for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
• If the salad is too thick, add a little bit of milk or water to thin it out.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or farfalle.
2. Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salad up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. How long does the salad last?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze the salad?
No, it is not recommended to freeze the salad as the mayonnaise will separate and the vegetables will become mushy.
5. How do I adjust the spiciness of the salad?
Add more or less cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
6. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can shred rotisserie chicken for convenience.
7. What are some other dressing options?
You can use a vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, or a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and herbs.
8. How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Make sure to drain the corn and black beans thoroughly before adding them to the salad.
9. Can I add other proteins to the salad?
Yes, you can add cooked shrimp, tuna, or ham for additional protein.
10. What are some healthy substitutions for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt, avocado, or hummus as healthier alternatives to mayonnaise.