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Dorothy Thomas

California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe

A fresh and flavorful pasta salad inspired by the famous California Chicken Cafe, featuring tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Californian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 8 oz (225g) fusilli or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Colander
  • Knife & cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to ice water to retain crispness. Drain well.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, broccoli, diced chicken, red onion, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  7. Garnish with sliced almonds (if using) and an extra sprinkle of black pepper.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add chickpeas or extra veggies.
  • Extra Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or crumbled bacon for more texture.