Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe for Quick Summer Meals

Make a quick and flavorful pasta salad using store-bought rotisserie chicken. This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad comes together fast and is tossed in a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight meal.

Rotisserie chicken from the store is a fantastic shortcut—convenient, flavorful, and ready to use in countless recipes. I often grab one at Costco and transform the meat into easy, crowd-pleasing dishes. This pasta salad is one of my favorites because it’s familiar, accessible, and appeals to a wide range of tastes.

This version is a twist on a classic tuna pasta salad I used to make, swapping tuna for chicken for a milder flavor and broader appeal. It’s a great option for gatherings since many guests prefer chicken over tuna. The recipe is flexible, so you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand.

If you enjoy pasta salads, you might also like other variations such as an antipasto-style Italian pasta salad with salami and olives or a bright lemon orzo salad with feta. For a vegetarian option, try a pasta salad with veggies and corn, and if you have leftover ham, a ham pasta salad is a delicious choice.

Make-Ahead Chicken Pasta Salad

This salad is ideal for making ahead. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, which makes it a perfect make-ahead side for parties or barbecues. Preparing components in advance reduces last-minute stress when hosting.

The recipe uses frozen peas, celery, and red onion, but you can customize the mix-ins. Corn, broccoli florets, or olives would be delicious additions. The vegetable choices are flexible—use what you enjoy or what’s in season.

Start by cooking the pasta according to package directions until al dente. I used farfalle, but any short pasta—macaroni, mini penne, shells, or rotini—will work. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl so it’s ready for the remaining ingredients.

Add the diced rotisserie chicken, celery, frozen peas (no need to thaw), and diced red onion to the pasta. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Whisk the dressing ingredients together in a separate bowl, then pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is coated. Chill the salad until you’re ready to serve. Presenting it in a clean white bowl makes for an attractive presentation, but any serving dish will do.

This pasta salad is simple, satisfying, and versatile—great for brunch, barbecues, or a grab-and-go lunch. Make a batch and enjoy the convenience and flavor all week long.