Creamy and flavorful chicken alfredo pasta salad

This chicken alfredo pasta salad combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy homemade alfredo sauce. It is a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or as a main course for a light lunch or dinner. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. With a preparing time of 30 minutes, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the Alfredo Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, black olives, red onion, and parsley.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the alfredo sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss until well coated.
7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl and toss again to combine all the ingredients.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
9. Serve the chicken alfredo pasta salad chilled or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts