Chicken Macaroni Salad

Name: Chicken Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 pound pre cooked flame grilled chicken breast strips, (we used John Soules Foods brand (two 8-ounce packages)); 1 ½ cups pre shredded mild cheddar cheese; 20 ounces pineapple tidbits, (well drained); 1 cup julienne cut carrots, (chopped ); 1 cup celery hearts, (chopped ); ¾ cup red onion, (finely chopped ); ¾ cup green peppers, (finely diced ); ¼ cup sweet relish; ½ cup raisins, (we used Sun Maid brand); 1 ½ cups mayonnaise, (we used Kraft brand); 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

This Chicken Macaroni Salad is a quick and easy dish combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp vegetables in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that's ready in just 40 minutes.

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Table of Contents

Chicken Macaroni Salad Ingredients
Macaroni Chicken Salad Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe
Troubleshooting
How To Serve Filipino Macaroni Salad
How To Store Homemade Chicken Macaroni Salad
Why This Chicken Macaroni Salad Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
Pasta Salad Recipes For Family Get-Togethers
JUMP TO RECIPE
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Our Chicken Macaroni Salad combines tender macaroni, juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and crunchy veggies in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics and barbecues, this dish is quick to prepare and delicious.

At Spaceships and Laser Beams, we offer easy-to-follow recipes with clear instructions and practical tips. This Chicken Macaroni Salad is simple to make, even for beginners, just like our dozens of other cold pasta and potato salad recipes.

With over ten years of experience creating family-friendly dinners and desserts, we ensure each recipe is reliable and tasty. Trust us to guide you through making this creamy pasta salad, a dish that’s both delicious and dependable.

a plate of Chicken Macaroni Salad with a spoon

Chicken Macaroni Salad Ingredients

Chicken Macaroni Salad raw ingredients that are labeled

You’ll love the fresh, vibrant combination of flavors in this Filipino-style Chicken Macaroni Salad. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family picnics, or as a tasty side dish for your next barbecue.

You’ll Need:

1 lb package elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 lb (2 – 8 oz each) packages of pre-cooked flame-grilled chicken breast strips (We used John Soules Foods brand)
1 ½ cups pre-shredded mild cheddar cheese
1 (20 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, well-drained
1 cup chopped julienne cut carrots
1 cup chopped celery hearts
¾ cup finely chopped red onion
¾ cup finely diced green peppers
¼ cup sweet relish
½ cup raisins (We used Sun Maid brand)
1 ½ cups mayonnaise (We used Kraft brand)
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Macaroni Chicken Salad Substitutions and Additions

If you’re looking to customize our Chicken Macaroni Salad recipe to suit your preferences or adapt to what’s available in your pantry, here are some substitution and addition ideas.

Remember, any changes may alter the taste and texture of the dish, so use them at your own discretion.

Elbow Macaroni: You can substitute with cavatappi, cellentani, ditalini, or farfalle for a different pasta shape and texture.

Pre-Cooked Chicken Breast Strips: Swap with rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even cooked turkey for a similar flavor.

Mild Cheddar Cheese: Try medium or sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor, or use a cheese blend to mix things up.

Pineapple Tidbits: If you prefer a different fruit, mandarin oranges or diced apples can add a unique sweetness and texture.

Red Onion: Swap with green onions or shallots for a milder onion flavor.

Green Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can be used to add more color and a slightly different taste.

Sweet Relish: Dill relish or chopped pickles can give a tangier bite.

Raisins: If you’re not a fan of raisins, try dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a different sweet element.

Mayonnaise: Low-fat mayonnaise can be used for a lighter version. Greek yogurt can also work but will change the flavor and texture.

Dijon Mustard: Horseradish mustard, stone-ground mustard, or plain yellow mustard can be used as alternatives.

Additions:

Chopped dill pickles
Hard boiled eggs
More fresh veggies, like peppers, cucumbers, red bell pepper, green onion, or diced zucchini

How To Make This Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

Making this easy Chicken Macaroni Salad recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a hearty, flavorful dish for their next dinner or gathering. Follow these steps to ensure your salad turns out wonderfully every time.

STEP ONE: Start by cooking 1 lb of elbow macaroni according to the package directions. To get the best texture, make sure the water is boiling before adding the pasta, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

PRO TIP: Add a tablespoon of kosher salt to the boiling water for extra flavor in the pasta.

STEP TWO: Drain the cooked macaroni and run cold water over the noodles as they drain. This stops the cooking process and keeps the noodles firm, ensuring they don’t become mushy in the salad.

STEP THREE: Transfer the fully drained macaroni to an extra-large (6-7 quart) bowl. This will give you ample space to mix the ingredients without spilling.

PRO TIP: Let the pasta drain thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Give it a shake in a colander to remove water from instead the noodles.

STEP FOUR: Carefully slice the pre-cooked chicken strips into bite-size pieces. If you’re using chicken from home, ensure it’s cooked through before slicing.

STEP FIVE: To the bowl with the macaroni, add the bite-sized chicken, shredded mild cheddar cheese, the well-drained pineapple tidbits, chopped carrots, celery, red onion, diced green peppers, and sweet relish. Mix these to distribute evenly.

chicken, shredded mild cheddar cheese, the well-drained pineapple tidbits, chopped carrots, celery, red onion, diced green peppers, and sweet relish combined in a bowl

STEP SIX: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Whisk them together until smooth.

mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper combined in a bowl

STEP SEVEN: Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the macaroni and other ingredients. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients thoroughly. This is crucial for flavor consistency throughout the salad.

mayonnaise mixture poured over the macaroni, chicken, and vegetables in a bowl

STEP EIGHT: If you are not serving the salad immediately, cover it tightly and chill in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Troubleshooting

Our recipe developers compiled this helpful list of additional advice as you make this creamy chicken macaroni salad recipe.

Using Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest vegetables and ingredients for the best taste and texture in your salad.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Drain Pineapple Well: Ensure the pineapple tidbits are well-drained to prevent excess liquid from making the salad too watery.
Shredding Cheese: If you’re shredding the cheese yourself, use a grater with larger holes for a better texture and to avoid clumping.
Chilling the Bowl: Chill the mixing bowl before adding the ingredients. This helps keep the salad cool and fresh during preparation.
Balancing the Dressing: If the dressing seems too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of milk or lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.
Gentle Mixing: When mixing the salad, use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, preserving the shape and texture of the pasta and vegetables.
Add Some Flavor: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or mustard as needed.

How To Serve Filipino Macaroni Salad

After crafting this tasty Chicken Macaroni Salad, the next step is deciding how to serve it. This versatile dish fits in at many occasions, whether it’s a casual family meal, a special occasion, or a big summer barbecue.

Here are some suggestions to elevate your Chicken Macaroni Salad and make it the centerpiece of your meal.

Classic Picnic Style: Serve your Chicken Macaroni Salad chilled on a large platter, surrounded by fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and radish. This makes it a vibrant, eye-catching dish perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings.

Lunch or Light Dinner: This pasta salad contains plenty of chicken, so it can easily make a filling lunch or a light dinner. Use it for meal prep, or be sure to take the leftovers to work.

Buffet Spread: Arrange the Chicken Macaroni Salad in a large bowl as part of a buffet. Complement it with grilled dishes, such as chicken, steak, or shrimp. Add a variety of side dishes like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread to create a hearty, satisfying meal.

Side Dish: Pair the Chicken Macaroni Salad with classic main dish options like grilled burgers, hot dogs, or pulled pork sandwiches. The creamy, tangy salad balances the rich flavors of these hearty mains.

Meal Prep Bowls: Create meal prep bowls by dividing the Chicken Macaroni Salad into individual containers. Add a serving of grilled fish or chicken, vegetables, and a small portion of fruit for a balanced, ready-to-eat lunch.

Potluck Favorite: Bring the Chicken Macaroni Salad to your next potluck. It’s a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with a variety of dishes that others might bring, such as roasted vegetables, deviled eggs, or sliced ham.

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How To Store Homemade Chicken Macaroni Salad

Properly storing your Chicken Macaroni Salad keeps it fresh and flavorful. Here’s a guide to help you store it effectively, whether you’re making it ahead, refrigerating leftovers, or freezing it for later.

MAKE AHEAD: This Chicken Macaroni Salad can be made ahead of time. Prepare the salad as directed, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious when served.

IN THE FRIDGE: Store your Chicken Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients evenly.

IN THE FREEZER: While freezing is not recommended for mayonnaise-based salads due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the pasta and vegetable mix without the dressing. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge and mix with freshly made dressing.

HOW TO REHEAT: Chicken Macaroni Salad is best served cold. We don’t recommend heating up this pasta salad.

Why This Chicken Macaroni Salad Is The Best

Chicken Macaroni Salad is a staple side dish that brings both comfort and tons of flavor to any meal.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this salad a breeze to whip up.

Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from casual picnics to family barbecues, it fits right in.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.

Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a guaranteed hit at any event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Chicken Macaroni Salad spicy?

Yes, you can add a bit of diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to give the salad a spicy kick.

Should I chill the salad before serving?

You dont have to, but it’s a good idea. Chilling the salad for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.

What’s the best way to mix the ingredients without breaking the pasta?

Use a folding technique with a large spoon or spatula to gently combine the ingredients and dressing.

Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a blend of Greek yogurt and light sour cream for a different taste and texture.

Is it necessary to use pre-cooked chicken breast strips?

No, you can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken, sliced into bite-size pieces.

Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or peas for extra crunch and flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta until al dente and rinse with cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process.

This Chicken Macaroni Salad recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Enjoy creating and sharing this crowd-pleaser with friends and family!

Pasta Salad Recipes For Family Get-Togethers

Chicken Macaroni Salad

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Total Time 40

Servings

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Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 pound pre cooked flame grilled chicken breast strips, we used John Soules Foods brand (two 8-ounce packages)
1 ½ cups pre shredded mild cheddar cheese
20 ounces pineapple tidbits, well drained
1 cup julienne cut carrots, chopped
1 cup celery hearts, chopped
¾ cup red onion, finely chopped
¾ cup green peppers, finely diced
¼ cup sweet relish
½ cup raisins, we used Sun Maid brand
1 ½ cups mayonnaise, we used Kraft brand
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and run cold water over the noodles as they drain. (The cool water will help stop the cooking process.) Allow the macaroni to completely drain.
Add the drained macaroni to an extra large (6-7 quart) bowl.
Carefully slice the pre cooked chicken strips into bite size pieces.
Add the sliced chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, pineapple tidbits, chopped carrots, chopped celery, chopped red onion, diced green peppers and sweet relish to the elbow macaroni.
Add the mayonnaise, mustard, kosher salt and cracked black pepper to a small mixing bowl. Whisk to combine until smooth.
Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the macaroni, chicken and vegetables. Stir to completely coat the ingredients. If you are making this ahead of time, cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve, otherwise serve immediately.

Notes

Using Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest vegetables and ingredients for the best taste and texture in your salad.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Drain Pineapple Well: Ensure the pineapple tidbits are well-drained to prevent excess liquid from making the salad too watery.
Shredding Cheese: If you’re shredding the cheese yourself, use a grater with larger holes for a better texture and to avoid clumping.
Chilling the Bowl: Chill the mixing bowl before adding the ingredients. This helps keep the salad cool and fresh during preparation.
Balancing the Dressing: If the dressing seems too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of milk or lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.
Gentle Mixing: When mixing the salad, use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, preserving the shape and texture of the pasta and vegetables.
Add Some Flavor: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or mustard as needed.

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

Stephanie Keeping Publisher
Layne Kangas Marketing
Lenore Ortyl Editorial Director
Lexus Monroe Editorial Assistant

Chicken Macaroni Salad

Chicken Macaroni Salad Ingredients

Macaroni Chicken Salad Substitutions and Additions

How To Make This Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

Troubleshooting

How To Serve Filipino Macaroni Salad

Amish Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

How To Store Homemade Chicken Macaroni Salad

Why This Chicken Macaroni Salad Is The Best

Frequently Asked Questions

Pasta Salad Recipes For Family Get-Togethers