California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad Recipe (Easy & Creamy!)

Craving a light yet satisfying meal? Let me introduce you to one of my favorites—California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad. Inspired by the famous deli-style dish served at the California Chicken Cafe, this salad is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, tender pasta, and a creamy, zesty dressing that ties it all together. Whether prepping for a summer picnic or needing a protein-packed lunch idea, this recipe is a game-changer.

This broccoli pasta salad is loaded with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors, making it a go-to for meal prep or potlucks. I love how simple it is to put together, yet it delivers that fresh, California-style flavor with every bite. The best part? It’s made with wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Let’s dive into everything you’ll need before we get to mixing.

Ingredients List

Salad Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breasts (diced)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (blanched and chopped)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
• 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Required Kitchen Tools

Here’s what I usually grab before starting this recipe:

1. Large mixing bowl – for tossing all the salad ingredients together.
2. A small whisking bowl is used to prepare the creamy dressing.
3. Whisk or fork – to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
4. Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping veggies and chicken.
5. Pasta pot and strainer – to cook and drain your pasta.

Salad Assembly: Step-by-Step Preparation

Now that all your ingredients are ready and your kitchen tools are set, it’s time to bring this vibrant salad to life. Here’s how I put it all together:

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by boiling your favorite short pasta—rotini or penne both work great. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

For that signature California crunch, blanch the broccoli florets by boiling them for 1–2 minutes, then immediately transferring them to an ice water bath. This keeps them crisp and beautifully green. Drain well and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

Whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The Greek yogurt adds a nice tang while lightening up the richness of the mayo. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

Add your diced cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, cooled pasta, red bell pepper, and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—this helps all the flavors meld together.

Finishing Touches and Serving Tips

Once your salad has chilled for at least an hour, it’s time to add the final touches that elevate the dish.

Step 5: Add Freshness and Flavor

Before serving, sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. The parsley gives the salad a burst of color and brightness, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together. Give the salad one final toss to incorporate these ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this broccoli pasta salad chilled, straight from the fridge. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a hearty side at dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish at BBQs and picnics. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for an extra serving of veggies.

Want to make it a complete meal? Pair it with garlic bread or a warm bowl of soup for a well-rounded plate.

Tips & Variations

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe for a quick shortcut.
• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and toss in chickpeas or cubed tofu for a plant-based version.
• Add More Crunch: Throw toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or even crispy bacon bits for added texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free yogurt, skip the Parmesan, or replace it with nutritional yeast.

This salad is versatile, so feel free to make it your own!

Storage Instructions

One of the reasons I love this salad is how well it holds up in the fridge.

How to Store

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad will stay fresh for 3–4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. The flavor improves the next day as the ingredients soak up the dressing.

Pro Tip

If you plan to make this ahead of time, keep the parsley and Parmesan separate and mix them just before serving. This keeps everything tasting and looking fresh.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Store it in an airtight container and mix in the parsley and Parmesan before serving.

Q2: What type of chicken works best?

I usually use baked or grilled chicken breast, but rotisserie chicken is also a quick and delicious option. Just make sure it’s cooled and chopped before mixing.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just skip the chicken and add chickpeas or extra veggies like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for a satisfying plant-based version.

Q4: Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt and mayo alternative, omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Q5: How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days when stored properly in a sealed container. It’s ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Conclusion

There you have it—my take on the California Chicken Cafe Broccoli Pasta Salad, a dish that’s every bit as refreshing and satisfying as the original. This salad is my kitchen’s well-balanced, flavor-packed favorite with its bright veggies, creamy dressing, and protein-rich chicken.

Whether you’re making it for a potluck, lunchbox, or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. And with a few creative tweaks, you can personalize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

So grab your ingredients, toss them all together, and enjoy a taste of California-style goodness right at home. Happy cooking!