Description

Transform the flavors of a classic club sandwich into a vibrant, hearty pasta salad. This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, smoky bacon, crisp veggies, and creamy cheddar cheese, all brought together with a zesty, creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or even a quick and satisfying lunch, this dish is endlessly customizable and guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

• For the Salad:
• 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne)
• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced red onion
• For the Dressing:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional Add-Ins:
• Avocado, diced
• Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Pickles, diced
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill)

Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
2. Prepare dressing by whisking mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. Toss gently.
4. Pour dressing over pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve cold, optionally garnished with fresh herbs, diced avocado, or extra bacon.

Tips and Conclusion

Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or replace some of the mayonnaise with yogurt for a healthier version.
Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted croutons or sunflower seeds on top just before serving.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a zesty twist.
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add roasted chickpeas or tofu for protein.

This Club Sandwich Pasta Salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of a beloved sandwich in a refreshing new form. The creamy dressing complements the smoky bacon, tangy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce perfectly, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Looking for more quick and crowd-pleasing recipes? Check out our other pasta salad creations, like Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad or Summer Veggie Pesto Pasta Salad. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to be a hit!