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Cajun Pasta Salad

A bowl of creamy Cajun Pasta Salad with chicken and vegetables

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This Cajun Pasta Salad features tender marinated chicken, macaroni, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, zesty Cajun dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or BBQs, it combines a little heat with a cool, creamy finish for a satisfying summer dish.

Ingredients

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  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 0.5 cup Creole-style chicken marinade
  • 2.5 cups uncooked macaroni
  • 0.5 small red onion, chopped
  • 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 0.5 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl with the Creole-style chicken marinade. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Once cooked, rinse with cool water and drain thoroughly. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.

3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and Creole seasoning in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth.

4. After marinating, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until fully cooked. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

5. Add the chopped red onion, halved tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, and parsley to the bowl with the macaroni.

6. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl, leaving any excess marinade behind in the pan.

7. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir well until everything is evenly coated.

8. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour before serving for best flavor.

Notes

You can add extra vegetables such as cucumbers or celery for additional crunch.

Shredded cheese can also be mixed in for a richer pasta salad.

Garnish with sliced scallions if desired.

This pasta salad keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container.

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