Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

As a professional chef, I’ve had the privilege of putting my own spin on this timeless recipe, infusing it with flavors that tantalize the taste buds and textures that delight the palate. From succulent pieces of chicken to al dente macaroni, every ingredient is carefully selected to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

But more than just a dish, chicken macaroni salad is a celebration of togetherness, a testament to the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

So join me on a culinary journey as we explore the rich history and vibrant flavors of chicken macaroni salad. From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved classic, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your own kitchen

Ingredients of Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

Macaroni: The main item of the salad, macaroni provides a hearty base that holds all the flavors together.
Chicken: Roasted, grilled, or boiled boneless chicken breasts or thighs for salad
Vegetables: Colorful vegetables add freshness and crunch to the salad. Commonly include crunchy celery, crisp bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced onions, and shredded carrots.
Mayonnaise: Use high-quality creamy mayonnaise for the best results, and adjust the quantity to achieve the desired creaminess.
Mustard: Mustard adds tanginess, balancing out the creamy mayonnaise. Choose your favorite type of mustard, whether it’s yellow mustard or a robust Dijon variety.
Vinegar: Vinegar adds the flavors of the salad, adding a subtle acidity that enhances the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Use kosher salt & black pepper for better taste

Substitutes of Recipe

Macaroni: Penne, rotini, or farfalle pasta can replace macaroni.
Chicken: Canned tuna, cooked shrimp, or tofu are alternatives to chicken.
Vegetables: Swap celery, bell peppers, onions, or carrots with cucumbers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes.
Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a mix can replace mayonnaise.
Mustard: Lemon juice, lime juice, or vinegar can substitute mustard.
Vinegar: Lemon, lime juice, white wine, or apple cider can replace vinegar.

Steps of Making Chicken Macaroni Salad

Boil Macaroni
Cook macaroni according to instructions.
Drain & rinse the cooked macaroni under cold water to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken
Sprinkle chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
Let the cooked chicken cool before icing it into bite-sized pieces.
Chop Vegetables
Wash and prepare the vegetables by chopping celery, bell peppers, onions, and carrots into small, uniform pieces.
Ensure all vegetables are finely chopped.
Mixing the Salad
In a large bowl, put cooked macaroni, chicken, and vegetables.
Add mayonnaise, vinegar, and mustard in the bowl.
Mix the salad with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Chilling and Serving
Cover the bowl with a lid and refrigerate the macaroni salad for an hour.
Garnish with optional additions like chopped hard-boiled eggs, sweet relish, or fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.

The Alternative of Chicken Macaroni Salad

Tuna Macaroni Salad
Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Vegetarian Macaroni Salad
Italian Pasta Salad
Asian-Inspired Macaroni Salad
Greek Pasta Salad

Nutrition Information of Chicken Macaroni Salad

Calories: Chicken macaroni salad typically contains around 250-300 calories per serving, with variations depending on ingredient quantities and portion sizes.

Protein: A serving of chicken macaroni salad provides approximately 10-15 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken and mayonnaise.

Carbohydrates: The macaroni and vegetables contribute to the carbohydrate content of the salad, providing approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fat: The mayonnaise used in the dressing adds to the fat content of the salad, with around 10-15 grams of fat per serving.

Fiber: Whole chicken macaroni salad is not particularly high in fiber, including vegetables, add some dietary fiber to the dish, contributing to overall digestive health.

Vitamins and Minerals: The salad contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, A, potassium, and iron, depending on the vegetables used and their nutrient content.

Health Benefits of Eating Chicken Macaroni Salad

Protein Source: Chicken macaroni salad provides a good source of protein from the chicken.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: The salad incorporates a variety of vegetables, such as celery, bell peppers, and carrots, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients support immune function, promote healthy skin, and improve well-being.
Moderate Carbohydrates: While macaroni contributes to the carbohydrate content of the salad, it’s typically consumed in moderation.
Fiber Content: The inclusion of vegetables adds dietary fiber to the salad, which aids in digestion, promotes bowel regularity, and helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating.
Customizable Ingredients: Chicken macaroni salad is highly customizable, allowing individuals to adjust the ingredients based on their dietary preferences and nutritional goals.
Balanced Meal Option: When paired with various nutrient-dense ingredients, chicken macaroni salad can serve as a balanced meal that includes protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Portion Control: Enjoying chicken macaroni salad in appropriate portions can help individuals practice portion control and mindful eating habits, which are important for weight management and overall health.

Some Extra Tips by Expert

Infuse Flavor with Homemade Dressing: Make a homemade dressing using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Mix in a dash of honey, Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy and creamy dressing that adds a refreshing twist to the salad.

Add a Crunchy Surprise: For an unexpected burst of texture, incorporate crushed potato chips or crispy bacon bits into the salad just before serving. This unconventional addition adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta and tender chicken.

Pickled Perfection: Introduce a tangy flavor by incorporating pickled vegetables, such as diced or onions, into the salad

Chicken Macaroni Salad

Recipe by admin@foodCourse: SaladsDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

391

kcal

Ingredients

Macaroni: The main item of the salad, macaroni provides a hearty base that holds all the flavors together.
Chicken: Roasted, grilled, or boiled boneless chicken breasts or thighs for salad
Vegetables: Colorful vegetables add freshness and crunch to the salad. Commonly include crunchy celery, crisp bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced onions, and shredded carrots.
Mayonnaise: Use high-quality creamy mayonnaise for the best results, and adjust the quantity to achieve the desired creaminess.
Mustard: Mustard adds tanginess, balancing out the creamy mayonnaise. Choose your favorite type of mustard, whether it’s yellow mustard or a robust Dijon variety.
Vinegar: Vinegar adds the flavors of the salad, adding a subtle acidity that enhances the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Use kosher salt & black pepper for better taste

Directions

Boil Macaroni: Cook macaroni according to instructions and drain & rinse the cooked macaroni under cold water to prevent sticking
Cook the Chicken:
Sprinkle chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken using the preferred method.
Let the cooked chicken cool before icing it into bite-sized pieces.
Chop Vegetables:
Wash and prepare the vegetables by chopping celery, bell peppers, onions, and carrots into small, uniform pieces.
Ensure all vegetables are finely chopped.
Mixing the Salad:
In a large bowl, put cooked macaroni, chicken, and vegetables.
Add mayonnaise, vinegar, and mustard in the bowl.
Mix the salad with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Chilling and Serving:
Cover the bowl with a lid and refrigerate the macaroni salad for an hour.
Garnish with optional additions like chopped hard-boiled eggs, sweet relish, or fresh herbs for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

Infuse Flavor with Homemade Dressing: Make a homemade dressing using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Mix in a dash of honey, Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy and creamy dressing that adds a refreshing twist to the salad.
Add a Crunchy Surprise: For an unexpected burst of texture, incorporate crushed potato chips or crispy bacon bits into the salad just before serving. This unconventional addition adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta and tender chicken.
Pickled Perfection: Introduce a tangy flavor by incorporating pickled vegetables, such as diced or onions, into the salad.