High-Protein • Creamy • Savory
A hearty and flavorful pasta salad loaded with diced chicken, crispy bacon, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for meal prep, family lunches, or potlucks — this salad is protein-rich, satisfying, and keeps well in the fridge.
Recipe Overview
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
Protein: ~30g
Carbs: ~20g
Fat: ~22g
Diet Style
- High-protein
- Family-friendly
- Gluten-free option (use gluten-free pasta)
- Meal-prep friendly
- Savory, creamy salad
Equipment
Large mixing bowl
Medium pot for pasta
Skillet for bacon
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or fusilli)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or light mayo
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Cook Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2 — Cook Chicken & Bacon
- Dice cooked chicken (or cook raw chicken in skillet with salt and pepper).
- Cook bacon until crispy and crumble once cooled.
Step 3 — Prep Broccoli
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Let cool slightly.
Step 4 — Mix Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayo), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth.
Step 5 — Combine Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chicken, broccoli, cheddar, and bacon.
- Pour dressing over mixture and fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6 — Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Adjust dressing to taste for creamier or tangier flavor.
- Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Total Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Serving Ideas
- Serve chilled as a lunch or side dish.
- Perfect for meal prep in individual containers.
- Great for potlucks or BBQs.
This Chicken Bacon Broccoli Pasta Salad is creamy, protein-packed, and full of flavor — a satisfying dish that’s both easy to make and perfect for keeping you full and energized.
