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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad
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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor? This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad blends tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a tangy sun-dried tomato dressing that might just steal your heart—or someone else’s!
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 460kcal
Cost $15

Ingredients

For the salad

  • 3 cups cooked pasta penne or rotini
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast cubed or shredded
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
  • ½ cup baby spinach or arugula optional
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil from the jar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan for extra creaminess

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  • Prepare the Chicken: If not already cooked, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and pan-fry in a skillet until golden and cooked through. Let cool, then cube or shred.
  • Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sun-dried tomato oil, Dijon, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and Parmesan.
  • Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss together cooked pasta, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, greens (if using), and dressing until well coated.
  • Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Garnish & Serve: Top with more grated Parmesan or fresh herbs before serving, if desired.

Notes

  1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it al dente to avoid a mushy salad after chilling.
  2. Use the Oil from Sun-Dried Tomatoes – It adds intense flavor to the dressing.
  3. Let It Chill – The salad tastes better after at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
  4. Add Crunch – Toss in some toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon for extra texture.