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Close-up of Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad showing glossy dressing and charred chicken slabs.

Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad with Roasted Charred Chicken and Fresh Grapes

This Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad features al dente rotini, smoky charred chicken breast, and juicy green grapes in a thick, glossy dressing. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a high-protein lunch that stays fresh.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 455
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Rotini Pasta 454g, boiled al dente
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast 680g, roasted with char marks
  • 1.5 cups Green Grapes 225g, halved
  • 3 stalks Celery 120g, thinly sliced
  • 0.5 small Red Onion 50g, finely diced
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley 15g, chopped flakes
  • 1.5 cups Mayonnaise 350ml, high quality
  • 1 tbsp White Wine Vinegar 15ml
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt 6g
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper 3g

Equipment

  • 1 Large Stockpot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet To achieve golden-brown char marks on chicken
  • 1 Large white ceramic bowl For serving and presentation

Method
 

Prepare the Components
  1. Sear chicken breasts in a hot skillet for 5-6 minutes per side until deep golden-brown char marks appear. Let rest, then slice into slabs.
  2. Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water immediately.
Assemble
  1. Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper until thick, white, and glossy.
  2. Combine pasta, chicken, grapes, celery, and onion in a bowl. Fold in dressing and garnish with parsley flakes.

Notes

Ensure chicken and pasta are completely cold before adding dressing to prevent separation.
Use a cast iron skillet for the best visual char marks.