I like making this creamy chicken macaroni salad when I want something comforting, filling, and easy to prepare. It combines tender chicken, soft macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a rich creamy dressing that makes every bite satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this salad works perfectly as a quick lunch, side dish, or make-ahead meal. The creamy dressing coats everything beautifully, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch. I also enjoy how easy it is to customize with different mix-ins depending on what I have available.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups (250 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
For the dressing:
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until tender. Then I drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly.
In a large bowl, I combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, celery, cucumber, red onion, carrots, and pickle relish.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
I pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. I like chilling the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving so the flavors blend well.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time takes around 20 minutes, plus 1 hour chilling time.
Variations
I sometimes add green peas or diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch. If I want a lighter version, I replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. I also enjoy mixing in shredded cheese or chopped boiled eggs for extra richness.
storage/reheating
I store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, I give it a quick stir because the dressing may thicken slightly. I don’t reheat this salad since I prefer serving it cold.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
I like using rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds extra flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
I usually use elbow macaroni, but small shells or rotini also work well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I often prepare it a day ahead because the flavors taste even better after chilling.
How do I keep the salad creamy?
I sometimes add a spoonful of mayonnaise before serving if the pasta absorbs too much dressing.
Can I freeze chicken macaroni salad?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.
Conclusion
I find this creamy chicken macaroni salad to be a perfect combination of comfort and freshness. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and great for family meals, picnics, or meal prep.
A creamy and comforting chicken macaroni salad made with tender chicken, soft elbow macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and a rich tangy dressing perfect for lunches, picnics, or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 cups (250 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until tender.
Drain the macaroni and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, chicken, celery, cucumber, red onion, carrots, and sweet pickle relish.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture.
Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly.
Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
Add extra mayonnaise before serving if the salad becomes dry.
Chilling improves the flavor and texture.
Customize with peas, bell peppers, cheese, or boiled eggs.
