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Lunch

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Salad

This classic pasta salad is a crowd favorite that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables in a creamy dressing.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 17, 2026
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Salad
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Total
1 hour 30 minutes
Serves
6

There is something so comforting about a big bowl of chicken macaroni salad. It is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or to have ready in the fridge for an easy lunch during the week.

My favorite thing about this recipe is how the crunch of the celery and bacon balances the soft pasta. For the best texture, be sure to cook your macaroni until it is just tender so it holds up well when tossed with the dressing.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente.

  2. 2

    Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set it aside to drain completely.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  4. 4

    Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, celery, onion, and pickle relish to the bowl.

  5. 5

    Toss everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.

  6. 6

    Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the salad seems a bit dry after sitting, just stir in a small spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving to bring back that creamy consistency.

#pasta salad#easy lunch#chicken#potluck recipe#comfort food

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