Go Back

High Protein Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad - Creamy, Fresh, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta: 12 ounces short-cut pasta (rotini, shells, or bow ties)
  • Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (grilled, baked, or rotisserie)
  • Broccoli: 3 cups small florets (fresh)
  • Cheddar: 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded or small cubes
  • Red onion: 1/3 cup finely diced
  • Celery: 2 ribs, finely chopped (optional for crunch)
  • Fresh herbs: 1/4 cup chopped parsley or dill (or a mix)
  • Greek yogurt: 3/4 cup plain, 2% or 0%
  • Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (adds creaminess and balance)
  • Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon + 2 tablespoons juice
  • Olive oil: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Optional add-ins: Crumbled bacon, peas, sunflower seeds, or hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to package directions.
  2. Blanch the broccoli: In the last 60–90 seconds of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. They should turn bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Drain and cool: Drain pasta and broccoli together. Rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool them down. Shake off excess water well.
  4. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Adjust to taste.
  5. Add the mix-ins: Fold in chicken, cheddar, red onion, and celery. Stir to coat lightly with the dressing.
  6. Combine: Add the cooled pasta and broccoli to the bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated and glossy. If it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or a spoon of yogurt.
  7. Finish and chill: Stir in fresh herbs. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  8. Serve: Give it a quick toss before serving. Add a sprinkle of cheddar or herbs on top for a fresh look.