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Chicken Macaroni Salad

A delicious and creamy Chicken Macaroni Salad packed with flavors, perfect for family gatherings and picnics.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni 1/2 lb.
  • 1 cup chicken, diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken breasts) For convenience, a store-bought rotisserie chicken can be used.
  • 6 strips bacon, cooked and diced Bacon adds great flavor.
  • 1/2 cup carrots, shredded Balance the richness.
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced Adds color and crunch.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced Soak in cold water beforehand to reduce tears.
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced More crunch!
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped Brightens the salad.
Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Full-fat preferred.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Full-fat recommended.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar Adds sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish For unexpected zing.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or distilled vinegar Apple cider is preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Gives tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Regular table salt is fine.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper For a kick.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, pickle relish, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  2. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang as needed.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the cooked macaroni, chicken, bacon, carrots, red bell pepper, red onion, celery, and parsley to the dressing; mix well.
  2. For convenience, you can seal all ingredients in a large bag and shake to mix.
Chill and Serve
  1. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

For serving, sprinkle with paprika or add extra parsley for an appealing presentation. This salad gets better overnight, but try to resist the urge to devour it early!