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Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad With Chicken – Fresh, Satisfying, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces short pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne work best)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (grilled, baked, or rotisserie)
  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer taste)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus more to taste)
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped (basil, cilantro, dill, or a mix)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (optional but delicious)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop cooking. Shake off excess water well.
  2. Prep the chicken: If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, chop or shred into bite-size pieces. If cooking fresh, season lightly with salt and pepper and grill or pan-sear until cooked through, then let it rest before chopping.
  3. Make the avocado dressing: In a food processor or bowl, combine avocados, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend or mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust with more lemon or salt as needed.
  4. Add herbs and heat: Stir in chopped herbs and red pepper flakes (if using). The herbs should look speckled throughout the sauce.
  5. Combine the salad: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Spoon the avocado dressing on top and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  6. Finish and season: Sprinkle in Parmesan if using. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. The flavors should be bright and balanced.
  7. Serve or chill: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture, or chill for 30–60 minutes to let flavors meld. Give it a quick toss before serving.