Save to Pinterest The sun was blazing through my kitchen window last July when I threw this together for what was supposed to be a quick lunch. My cousin had dropped by unexpectedly with her kids, and suddenly I needed to feed four hungry people with whatever I had in the fridge. That impromptu meal became the most requested dish at every family gathering since, and I started keeping spiral pasta on hand just in case.
Last summer I brought this to a potluck where the host forgot to mark serving utensils. Three people asked for the recipe before they even knew who made it. Watching my normally picky nephew scoop up a huge serving, completely bypassing the hot dogs, was all the validation I needed.
Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz) spiral pasta: Fusilli or rotini catch the dressing in every curl, making each bite perfectly coated
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: About 300 g total, seasoned simply so the honey mustard can shine
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the chicken until golden and gorgeous
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper: The bare minimum seasoning needed for the chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: They burst in your mouth with little pops of brightness
- 1 cup cucumber diced: Adds refreshing crunch that cuts through the creamy dressing
- 1/2 red bell pepper diced: Brings sweetness and that gorgeous jewel tone color
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped: Just enough bite without being overwhelming
- 1/4 cup celery thinly sliced: The secret crunch that makes every texture interesting
- 2 cups mixed salad greens optional: Adds bulk and makes it feel even lighter
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard: The sharp backbone that makes the dressing sing
- 2 tbsp honey: Balances the mustard with just enough floral sweetness
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise: Creates that creamy luscious texture we all crave
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the dressing coat every single ingredient
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Savory depth without any raw bite
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust until the dressing tastes perfectly balanced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped: Fresh green finish that makes everything look pro
Instructions
- Get your pasta ready:
- Cook the spiral pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool
- Cook the chicken perfectly:
- Season both sides with salt and pepper, then cook in hot olive oil for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through
- Let the chicken rest:
- Set it aside for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, then dice into bite sized pieces
- Prep your vegetables:
- Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and thinly slice the celery
- Make the magic dressing:
- Whisk together the Dijon, honey, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and garlic powder until silky smooth
- Taste and adjust:
- Add salt and pepper to the dressing until it tastes perfectly balanced to your palate
- Bring it all together:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, all the vegetables, and salad greens if using
- Dress it up:
- Pour the honey mustard dressing over everything and toss gently until every ingredient is coated
- Finish with flair:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld
Save to Pinterest My sister in law originally turned up her nose at cold pasta salad until she tried this at my daughters birthday party. She texted me the next day asking for the recipe because her husband kept talking about it.
Make It Your Own
I have learned that this recipe is incredibly forgiving and welcomes substitutions with open arms. Sometimes I use grilled chicken leftover from the night before, and honestly the smoky flavor adds something special.
Serving Suggestions
This salad shines alongside anything grilled, but I have also served it as a main dish with some crusty bread and people leave happy. The flavors work beautifully with a crisp white wine or even just sparkling water with lemon.
Storage And Meal Prep
The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, though the pasta will continue to absorb the dressing. I recommend storing a little extra dressing separately to refresh it before serving leftovers.
- Hold off on adding the salad greens until right before serving so they do not get wilted
- The chicken is best sliced just before tossing to prevent it from drying out
- Bring the salad to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving leftovers
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about a dish that comes together so easily yet makes people feel so cared for. I hope this becomes your go to for impromptu gatherings too.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salad up to 2 hours before serving. Keep it refrigerated to allow flavors to meld. Add dressing just before serving to prevent pasta from becoming soggy, or store dressing separately and toss when ready to eat.
- → What are good substitutions for chicken?
Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience. You can also use grilled chicken, turkey, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with chickpeas or tofu for protein. Cooking time varies by protein choice.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute mayonnaise with dairy-free mayo or Greek yogurt alternative. Use dairy-free pasta if needed. The honey-mustard base is naturally dairy-free, making swaps simple while maintaining great flavor.
- → What vegetables work best?
Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and celery are excellent. You can also add corn, peas, shredded carrots, avocado, or radishes. Choose colorful options for visual appeal and varied textures.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 2 days. If dressing and salad are separate, they last longer individually. The pasta may absorb dressing over time, so consider keeping components separate for meal prep.
- → What wine or beverage pairs well with this?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the honey-mustard dressing beautifully. Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water are refreshing non-alcoholic options. The acidity in these beverages balances the creamy dressing perfectly.