Chicken Pasta Salad with Grapes & Citrus

This Chicken Pasta Salad with Grapes & Citrus has been in my husband's family for years, and it always shows up when we feed a crowd. Everyone expects it at gatherings because it delivers every single time. From holidays to casual get togethers, this recipe earns its place on the table and never comes home with leftovers.

Because this recipe includes pasta, it goes far beyond a typical chicken salad. You can enjoy it straight from the bowl for a filling meal, or pile it onto a soft croissant or classic sandwich bread. You can also roll it into a wrap, which makes it an easy and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Another reason this recipe works so well is how easily it scales. You can double or triple it without changing a thing, which makes it perfect for hosting, parties, or potlucks. It feeds a lot of people and still feels special, which takes the stress out of planning what to bring.

Whether you serve it as a main dish, a make ahead lunch, or a shareable option for entertaining, this chicken pasta salad fits the moment. It brings comfort, familiarity, and flexibility together in one simple recipe that people ask for again and again!

Background content: is this popular at certain times of year? Special holidays?

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe. Contextual, in-content links are far more valuable than a group listed at the bottom of the post.

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Ingredients
Instructions
Equipment
Storage
FAQ
Hosting a Crowd?
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Ingredients

Ditalini pasta
Canned Pineapple tidbits
Canned Mandarin oranges
Red seedless grapes
Chicken (rotisserie, shredded)
Green onions, chopped
Mayonnaise
Soy sauce
Lemon juice

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Cook the pasta - Boil the Ditalini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool. While it boils, Prepare the fruit - Drain the juice from the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges. Chop the mandarin oranges into small pieces.

Prep the fresh ingredients - Dice the green onions and halve the grapes. Set aside.

Combine the salad - In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked pasta, pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, and green onions.

Add the dressing - Pour in the mayonnaise, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Serve - Enjoy the salad on croissants, sandwich bread, in a wrap, or straight from the bowl! ---> Pro tip: If feeding a crowd, double the recipe!

Equipment

Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Colander (to drain pasta)
Large mixing bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups/spoons (for dressing)
Spoon or spatula (for mixing)

Storage

Store the Chicken Pasta Salad with Grapes & Citrus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving, and keep it chilled until ready to eat.

FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, as the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or mini penne work well if you don't have Ditalini on hand.

3. Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works best, but you can also use cooked shredded chicken breast or leftover chicken from another meal.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?

Keep the salad in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Hosting a Crowd?

We've got you covered! Try these:

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