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Creamy canned chicken pasta salad in a white bowl with rotini, red pepper, and celery.

Canned Chicken Pasta Salad

This canned chicken pasta salad is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Made with pantry staples, it's creamy, tangy, and ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini or shell pasta
  • 2 cans 12.5 oz each canned chicken, drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley optional
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. While pasta cooks, drain canned chicken and flake with a fork.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add cooled pasta, flaked chicken, red bell pepper, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.