Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

This creamy and colorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad brings together tender tortellini juicy chicken and a tangy parmesan dressing for a pasta salad that always disappears fast at summer picnics and potlucks

I first tried this with leftover roast chicken from Sunday dinner and it turned regular pasta salad into something truly special Everyone asks for the recipe now

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini: choose a fresh or refrigerated brand for the best texture Tender pasta pillows soak up the creamy sauce
• Cooked chicken shredded: Rotisserie or leftover roast chicken adds protein and makes this salad satisfying
• Cherry tomatoes halved: bring bright juicy bites and a burst of color Always pick firm ripe tomatoes for the best flavor
• Baby spinach: gives freshness and a pop of green Choose young leaves for tender texture
• Mayonnaise: makes the dressing ultra creamy Go for full fat for richness
• Grated parmesan: gives classic savory depth Freshly grated adds more flavor than the pre shredded kind
• Sun dried tomatoes: intensify flavor and add slightly chewy bits Look for ones packed in oil for best texture
• Basil: adds an herby lift Use fresh basil for the brightest taste
• Garlic powder salt and pepper: layers in extra flavor Use cracked black pepper and adjust salt to taste
• Milk: loosens the dressing and helps it evenly coat everything Use just enough for a pourable consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dressing:

Combine mayonnaise parmesan sun dried tomatoes basil garlic powder salt and pepper in a small bowl Whisk until everything is well blended Add milk one tablespoon at a time whisking until the dressing is smooth and just thin enough to pour

Prepare the Salad Base:

Place cooked and cooled cheese tortellini in a large mixing bowl Add shredded chicken cherry tomatoes and baby spinach Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly but avoid breaking up the tortellini

Dress the Salad:

Pour the prepared dressing over the tortellini mixture Use a large spatula or serving spoon to toss everything gently until coated Each piece of pasta and chicken should be glossy with dressing

Chill to Meld Flavors:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes This allows the flavors to marry and the dressing to cling to the pasta Chilling also helps the spinach stay crisp

Finish and Serve:

Before serving give the salad a final toss Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary If the salad feels a bit dry stir in a splash more milk to refresh the creamy texture

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The sun dried tomatoes are my secret weapon for adding big flavor without extra effort I remember making this for a family potluck on a hot summer day The bowl was scraped clean before I could get seconds

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge It is best eaten within two to three days If the salad stiffens up after chilling just mix in a bit more milk or a spoonful of mayo before serving to refresh the creaminess

Ingredient Substitutions

Use penne or another short pasta if tortellini is not on hand to keep things budget friendly For a lighter version try Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayo Swap rotisserie turkey or baked tofu for the chicken if you need a different protein

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is filling enough for lunch but also makes a top notch side for grilled meats It shines at potlucks with crusty bread or as part of a buffet with classic sides like corn on the cob or watermelon

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Cultural Context

Though inspired by the viral creamy Marry Me Chicken dish this salad version is tailored for American summer gatherings Marrying Italian flavors with picnic practicality it is a nod to how food trends evolve and blend across home kitchens

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute another pasta for tortellini?

Yes, penne or other short pasta shapes work well and can help reduce cost. Ensure it's cooked and cooled before using.

→ How long should I chill the pasta salad?

Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. For extra flavor, chill longer if time allows.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, stirring before serving.

→ What proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Diced turkey, cooked shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas make great alternatives if you prefer a different protein.

→ How can I make the dressing lighter?

Try using Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.