Refreshing Lemon Poppy Seed Chicken Pasta Salad with Cranberries

Recipe Collection: Salads

Refreshing Lemon Poppy Seed Chicken Pasta Salad with Cranberries elevates your meal prep with a satisfying dish that’s not vegetarian. This American cuisine recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and tart cranberries, all tossed in a flavorful poppy seed dressing. Ideal for picnics or potlucks, this salad is gluten and dairy-friendly, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.

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Overview

This Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for picnics or potlucks. The creamy poppy seed dressing pairs beautifully with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and tart cranberries, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish.

Diet Type

Not Vegetarian

Allergies

Gluten, Dairy

Cuisine

American

Serving Size: 12

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 16 Ounces (oz) package penne pasta, packed
• 1.5 Cups cubed cooked chicken, seasoned
• 2 Stalks celery, minced
• 1 Cup dried cranberries, packaged
• 4 Green onions, minced
• 1.5 Cups creamy poppy seed salad dressing, packaged
• 2 Teaspoons (tsp) fresh lemon juice, squeezed
• 1 Teaspoon (tsp) lemon zest, zested
• 0.5 Teaspoon (tsp) kosher salt, to taste
• 1 Pinch black pepper, ground
• 0.5 Cups toasted slivered almonds, toasted

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until the pasta is cool. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, cubed chicken, minced celery, dried cranberries, and minced green onions.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the creamy poppy seed dressing, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted slivered almonds over the salad for added crunch and flavor.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the refreshing blend of flavors in this delightful pasta salad.

Enjoy your homemade Refreshing Lemon Poppy Seed Chicken Pasta Salad with Cranberries!