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

Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.

Prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once ready, refrigerate the dressing while you assemble the salad.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. Toss the ingredients gently to mix them evenly.

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss again to ensure everything is well coated in the creamy mixture.

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve the pasta salad cold, and if desired, garnish with fresh herbs, diced avocado, or additional crispy bacon for extra flair.

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!