Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a beloved dish often served at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Its creamy, sweet, and savory flavors make it a unique standout among classic pasta salads. This recipe blends tender chicken, macaroni, and a medley of fruits and vegetables, creating a dish that’s both comforting and festive.
Introduction to Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a staple of Filipino celebrations and gatherings. This creamy, sweet, and savory salad holds a special place on the table, especially during Christmas, New Year’s, and fiestas. It’s a crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike, thanks to its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The dish combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a colorful array of vegetables and fruits, all tied together with a rich, creamy dressing. It’s a unique take on traditional pasta salads, adding ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, raisins, and pineapple that give it a signature Filipino twist.
What makes this salad even more special is its versatility. Every family has its own version, often passed down through generations. Some recipes lean sweeter, while others add a touch of savory with cheese or hard-boiled eggs. No matter the variation, it’s always a dish that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To make a delicious Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this festive dish:
Core Ingredients:
Elbow Macaroni (500g)
The foundation of the salad, providing a soft yet firm texture that absorbs the creamy dressing perfectly.
Chicken Breast (2 cups, cooked and shredded)
Adds a tender, savory protein to the dish. Boiled or roasted chicken works well.
Carrots (1 cup, diced)
Adds a crunch and vibrant color to the salad.
Pineapple Tidbits (1 cup, drained)
Sweet and tangy, this classic ingredient enhances the flavor profile.
Raisins (½ cup)
For a hint of natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, diced)
Provides a rich and savory contrast to the sweetness.
Hard-Boiled Eggs (3, chopped)
Optional but adds an extra layer of creaminess and protein.
For the Dressing:
Mayonnaise (1 ½ cups)
The base of the dressing, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (½ cup)
Adds sweetness and a silky consistency that balances the savory ingredients.
All-Purpose Cream (½ cup)
Makes the dressing even creamier and smooth.
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Optional Ingredients:
- Celery (½ cup, diced) for added crunch.
- Sweet Pickle Relish (2 tablespoons) for a tangy kick.
- Green Peas (½ cup) for extra texture and nutrition.
Toppings:
Sprinkle some grated cheese, chopped parsley, or more pineapple tidbits for garnish before serving.
Ingredient Notes:
- Macaroni: Use elbow macaroni for the classic look, but shell or bowtie pasta can work in a pinch.
- Chicken: Shred the chicken finely to ensure it mixes evenly with the other ingredients.
- Dressing: Adjust the sweetness or creaminess by modifying the amount of condensed milk and mayonnaise.
Preparing the Ingredients
Proper preparation of the ingredients is essential to ensure your Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad turns out perfectly. Follow these detailed steps to get everything ready before assembling the salad.
Cooking the Macaroni
- Bring water to a boil: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook the macaroni: Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually 7–9 minutes) until al dente. Avoid overcooking, as the macaroni should hold its shape when mixed with the dressing.
- Drain and cool: Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely to prevent the dressing from becoming runny.
Preparing the Chicken
- Cook the chicken: Boil chicken breasts in a pot with water, salt, and a few optional aromatics like bay leaves or onion slices for added flavor.
- Shred the chicken: Once cooked through, remove the chicken and let it cool slightly. Use two forks or your hands to shred it into thin, bite-sized pieces.
- Optional tip: For extra flavor, lightly season the shredded chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Chopping the Vegetables
- Carrots: Peel and dice the carrots into small cubes. Blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This keeps the carrots vibrant and slightly crunchy.
- Celery (if using): Dice the celery into small pieces for added crunch and flavor.
Prepping the Sweet and Savory Additions
- Pineapple tidbits: Drain the canned pineapple thoroughly to avoid adding extra liquid to the salad. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel if necessary.
- Raisins: Ensure they’re plump and fresh. If they feel dry, soak them in warm water for a few minutes and drain before adding to the salad.
- Cheddar cheese: Cut the cheese into small cubes for a pop of creamy, savory flavor in every bite.
Hard-Boiled Eggs (Optional)
- Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes.
- Peel and chop: Once cooked, cool the eggs in ice water, peel, and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Preparing the Dressing
- Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and all-purpose cream.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a tangy flavor, stir in a tablespoon of sweet pickle relish.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust the sweetness or creaminess as desired by tweaking the proportions of condensed milk and cream.
Organizing Everything
Once all your ingredients are prepared and cooled, place them in separate bowls for easy assembly. This organization ensures a smooth process when mixing everything together.
The Perfect Dressing: Creamy and Tangy
The dressing is the heart of Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad, tying together the sweet, savory, and creamy elements of the dish. Achieving the right balance of flavors is essential to creating the signature taste that makes this salad so beloved. Here’s how to prepare a perfect dressing that will elevate your dish.
Key Components of the Dressing
Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy base of the dressing. Choose a rich, full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat mayo, but the richness might be slightly reduced.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Adds sweetness and smooth texture. This is a distinct feature of Filipino-style macaroni salad and sets it apart from other pasta salads. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
All-Purpose Cream
Enhances the creaminess of the dressing and ensures a silky texture. If unavailable, heavy cream or a combination of milk and cream can be used as a substitute.
Salt and Pepper
These simple seasonings are crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Optional Ingredients
- Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the condensed milk.
- Mustard: A small amount can provide a subtle depth of flavor and a touch of tanginess.
- Grated Cheese: Mixing in a bit of finely grated cheese can add a savory note to the dressing.
Step-by-Step Preparation of the Dressing
Combine the Creamy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and all-purpose cream. Start with the suggested proportions (e.g., 1 ½ cups mayonnaise, ½ cup condensed milk, and ½ cup cream) and adjust as needed.
Add the Flavorings
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Begin with a small pinch and gradually add more until the flavor is balanced. If using sweet pickle relish, stir in 1–2 tablespoons for a tangy contrast. For a more savory profile, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard.
Taste and Adjust
After mixing, taste the dressing. Adjust the sweetness by adding more condensed milk if needed, or balance it out with an extra pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar for tanginess.
Refrigerate
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 15–20 minutes. Chilling helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dressing.
Tips for Balancing Sweetness and Tanginess
- Too Sweet? Add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of calamansi (Philippine lime) to tone down the sweetness.
- Too Tangy? Mix in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or condensed milk to mellow the acidity.
- Too Thick? Thin the dressing with a small amount of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Assembling a Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a straightforward yet rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to bring together the prepped ingredients and dressing into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.
Mix the Dressing
Start by ensuring your dressing is well-prepared and chilled (refer to Section 4). Whisk the mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, and all-purpose cream together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine the Main Ingredients
Prepare a Large Mixing Bowl
Use a bowl big enough to hold all the ingredients with room for mixing.
Add the Cooked Macaroni
Ensure the macaroni is completely cooled to prevent the dressing from breaking.
Mix in the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken evenly to the bowl. Toss gently to distribute.
Incorporate the Vegetables and Additions
Add the diced carrots, drained pineapple tidbits, raisins, cheddar cheese cubes, and any other mix-ins like green peas or celery. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula to avoid crushing delicate components.
Add the Dressing
Pour in Gradually
Start by adding half the dressing to the salad. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
Adjust for Consistency
Gradually add more dressing until the salad reaches your desired level of creaminess. Remember, the macaroni will absorb some of the dressing as it sits.
Taste and Refine
After mixing, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of calamansi juice if needed.
Chill the Salad
Transfer to a Serving Dish
Once mixed, transfer the salad to a clean serving dish or container.
Refrigerate
Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become more cohesive.
Garnish and Serve
Add Finishing Touches
Just before serving, garnish the salad with grated cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a few extra pineapple tidbits for a festive look.
Serve Chilled
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is best enjoyed cold, making it refreshing and perfect for warm celebrations.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid Freezing: The creamy dressing and macaroni don’t freeze well and may lose their texture upon thawing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Mix Gently: Overmixing can break the macaroni and make the salad mushy. Use a gentle folding motion.
- Balance Flavors: Remember, the salad should have a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Adjust the dressing as needed to suit your taste.
- Prepare Ahead: This salad tastes better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors develop over time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present your Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad can elevate it from a simple dish to a showstopper on your table. With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, a little attention to detail goes a long way in making it visually appealing and appetizing. Follow these tips for serving and presenting this classic salad.
Choose the Right Dish
Use a Clear or White Serving Bowl
A clear glass bowl showcases the colorful ingredients like carrots, raisins, and pineapple. Alternatively, a clean white dish creates a neat and elegant presentation.
For Individual Servings
Use small ramekins, bowls, or cups to serve the salad in portions. This is especially great for formal gatherings or buffets.
Add Garnishes
Grated Cheese
Sprinkle some finely grated cheddar cheese over the top for a pop of yellow color and a savory touch.
Pineapple Tidbits or Raisins
Scatter a few extra pineapple tidbits or raisins on top for added visual appeal and a hint of sweetness.
Chopped Parsley or Green Onions
A light sprinkle of parsley or finely chopped green onions can add a fresh, vibrant color to the dish.
Arrange for Visual Appeal
Layered Presentation
If using a deep serving bowl, you can create a layered look by alternating macaroni salad with small amounts of cheese, pineapple, or raisins. This makes the salad look even more festive.
Neat Edges
Use a spatula to smooth the top layer of the salad before adding garnishes for a clean and polished finish.
Keep It Chilled Until Serving
Serve the salad cold to maintain its creamy consistency and refreshing taste. Keep it in the refrigerator until just before serving. If the salad will be out for a long time, such as during a party or buffet, place the serving bowl over a tray of ice to keep it cool.
Pair It with Other Dishes
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some popular pairings:
- Savory Mains: Serve alongside roasted chicken, lechon (roast pork), or grilled meats for a hearty meal.
- Other Filipino Classics: Pair with dishes like lumpiang shanghai (spring rolls) or pancit (noodles) for a traditional Filipino feast.
- As a Side Dish: It works well as a side for barbecue, fried chicken, or even sandwiches.
Serving Sizes
Plan for approximately ½ to 1 cup of salad per person, depending on whether it’s a main dish or a side. For larger gatherings, scale up the recipe accordingly.
Add a Festive Touch
Holiday Presentation
For Christmas or New Year’s celebrations, add a sprinkle of red and green bell peppers for a festive look.
Themed Serving
Use holiday-themed dishes or serving trays that match the occasion. For birthdays, consider using colorful bowls to add cheer.
Pro Serving Tips
- Mix Before Serving: If the salad has been chilled for a long time, give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.
- Serve with Small Spoons or Forks: This makes it easier for guests to serve themselves without spilling.
Variations and Customizations
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit individual preferences, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Whether you want to put your own spin on the classic recipe or adapt it for specific occasions, here are several ways to customize the salad while preserving its signature taste.
Sweetness Adjustments
Less Sweet Version:
Reduce or omit the sweetened condensed milk and replace it with a small amount of regular cream. You can also skip the raisins if you prefer a less sweet salad.
Extra Sweet Version:
Increase the amount of sweetened condensed milk, add more pineapple tidbits, or even include diced apples for a fruity twist.
Protein Alternatives
Different Meats:
Replace chicken with shredded turkey, ham, or even flaked tuna for a different protein profile.
Vegetarian Option:
Omit the meat and add protein-rich options like chickpeas, cubed tofu, or boiled quail eggs.
Pasta Substitutions
Other Pasta Shapes:
Swap elbow macaroni for shell pasta, bow-tie pasta, or penne. These shapes hold the dressing well and add variety.
Gluten-Free Option:
Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or corn to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Additions for Extra Flavor
Fruits:
Add diced apples, chopped oranges, or even fresh grapes for a refreshing fruitiness.
Nuts:
Sprinkle in chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Spices and Herbs:
Experiment with a pinch of paprika or a dash of garlic powder for added depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also provide a fresh, aromatic touch.
Savory Enhancements
Cheese:
Incorporate grated parmesan or mozzarella for a creamier texture and enhanced savory flavor.
Pickles or Olives:
Mix in diced dill pickles or sliced olives for a tangy contrast.
Crispy Bacon:
Add crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky, salty kick.
Healthier Options
Light Dressing:
Use Greek yogurt or low-fat mayonnaise as a base instead of regular mayonnaise for a lighter, healthier dressing.
Increased Veggies:
Add more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini for added nutrition and crunch.
Reduced Sweetness:
Use unsweetened cream or plain yogurt in place of sweetened condensed milk to reduce the sugar content.
Regional or Cultural Twists
Asian-Inspired Version:
Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the dressing for an umami flavor. You can also include shredded nori or sesame seeds as garnish.
Western-Style Salad:
Incorporate ingredients like sweet corn, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a more Western flair.
Presentation Variations
Layered Salad:
Create a layered version by alternating ingredients in a glass dish, making it visually appealing for parties.
Stuffed Version:
Use the salad as a stuffing for hollowed-out bell peppers, large tomatoes, or even lettuce wraps for an elegant twist.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
Milder Flavors:
Skip strong flavors like pickles or relish and focus on sweet and creamy ingredients.
Fun Shapes:
Use fun-shaped pasta like stars or alphabet shapes to make the salad more appealing to children.
Holiday-Specific Ideas
Christmas:
Add red and green bell peppers for a festive color theme.
Easter:
Include pastel-colored quail eggs or dye hard-boiled eggs for a playful, seasonal look.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time, as the flavors develop and deepen with some resting time. Proper storage and preparation techniques also help maintain its creamy texture and freshness. Here’s everything you need to know about storing and making this dish in advance.
Storing Leftovers
Refrigeration
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the salad to a clean, airtight container immediately after serving. This prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge and helps maintain its flavor.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored, the salad can last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Avoid Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for macaroni salad due to its creamy dressing. The mayonnaise and cream may separate and become watery upon thawing, leading to an unpleasant texture.
Mix Before Serving
After refrigeration, the salad may become slightly dry as the macaroni absorbs the dressing. Gently mix it before serving, and if needed, add a small amount of fresh dressing to restore its creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
- Macaroni: Cook the macaroni a day ahead, rinse with cold water, and store it in a container or zip-top bag. Toss with a small amount of oil to prevent clumping.
- Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken and store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Vegetables and Additions: Chop carrots, celery, and other mix-ins in advance. Drain and dry the pineapple tidbits to prevent excess liquid. Store these ingredients in separate containers in the fridge.
Prepare the Dressing Ahead
Mix the dressing ingredients and store them in a covered container in the refrigerator. Stir before using to ensure it’s well-blended. Dressing can be prepared up to 2 days ahead.
Assemble Closer to Serving Time
For the best texture and flavor, mix all the components together a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the salad fresh.
Keeping It Fresh for Events
Chill Before Serving
Serve the salad cold for the best taste and texture. If it will be sitting out for an extended period, keep the bowl over a tray of ice to maintain its chill.
Separate Garnishes
If you’re adding garnishes like grated cheese or parsley, keep them separate until just before serving to preserve their freshness and appearance.
Avoid Over-Mixing
Mix the salad gently to prevent breaking the macaroni or turning the dressing watery.
Preventing Spoilage
Monitor Temperature
Cream-based salads can spoil quickly if left at room temperature for too long. Aim to keep the salad out of the fridge for no more than 2 hours. For outdoor events in warm weather, reduce this time to 1 hour.
Divide Into Portions
Instead of placing the entire batch on the table, divide the salad into smaller portions. Keep the rest refrigerated and replenish as needed.
Refreshing Leftover Salad
Restore Creaminess
If the salad looks dry after storage, add a small amount of fresh mayonnaise or cream and mix gently to revive its creamy consistency.
Brighten the Flavors
Add a splash of calamansi juice or a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors that might have mellowed in storage.
Tips for Large-Scale Preparation
Double the Recipe
For big gatherings, it’s easy to scale up the recipe. Prepare ingredients in large batches and assemble in stages to ensure even mixing.
Store in Multiple Containers
When making a large quantity, divide the salad into smaller containers for easier storage and handling.
Pro Tips for Busy Hosts
- Plan Ahead: If you’re hosting a party, prepare all the components the day before and assemble the salad on the day of the event.
- Label Containers: If preparing multiple dishes, label the containers to stay organized.
- Keep Backup Dressing: Make extra dressing to add freshness if needed before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad may seem straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can affect the flavor, texture, or overall quality of the dish. To help you avoid these pitfalls, here’s a list of mistakes to watch out for and tips on how to prevent them.
Overcooking the Macaroni
- Mistake: Overcooking the macaroni can lead to mushy pasta that won’t hold up well in the salad. This can make the salad lose its desirable texture.
- Solution: Follow the package instructions carefully for cooking time, but test the macaroni 1–2 minutes before the suggested time. It should be al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta immediately and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Not Letting the Salad Chill Long Enough
- Mistake: Serving the salad immediately after mixing it without allowing it to chill will prevent the flavors from fully developing. The dressing might also not fully coat the ingredients.
- Solution: Always chill the salad in the fridge for at least 2–4 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to reach its ideal texture.
Using Warm Chicken or Macaroni
- Mistake: Mixing the salad with warm chicken or macaroni can cause the dressing to break down or become watery. Warm ingredients also make the salad less refreshing.
- Solution: Make sure the macaroni has cooled completely before mixing it with the dressing. After cooking the chicken, let it rest and shred it when it’s cool to the touch.
Overloading with Sweet Ingredients
- Mistake: Adding too much sweetened condensed milk, pineapple, or raisins can make the salad overly sweet, overpowering the savory flavors and making it cloying.
- Solution: Stick to the recommended measurements for sweet ingredients and taste as you go. If you prefer a sweeter salad, add small amounts of condensed milk or raisins gradually and balance it with salt or citrus.
Underseasoning the Salad
- Mistake: A bland salad can result from not seasoning the dressing properly, leaving the dish flat in flavor.
- Solution: Always season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then gradually adjust. A small splash of calamansi or lemon juice can help brighten the flavors.
Using Low-Quality Mayonnaise
- Mistake: Using low-quality mayonnaise can affect the creamy texture and flavor of the salad. Some brands may have a less desirable taste or a watery consistency.
- Solution: Choose a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the best results. If you prefer a healthier option, use a reputable low-fat mayonnaise but keep in mind that the salad’s flavor might be slightly less rich.
Overmixing the Salad
- Mistake: Mixing the salad too aggressively can break up the pasta and chicken, leading to a mushy or unattractive dish.
- Solution: Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula or spoon. Take your time and avoid stirring too forcefully to maintain the integrity of the pasta and other ingredients.
Not Preparing Enough Dressing
- Mistake: Sometimes, there isn’t enough dressing to coat all the ingredients, leading to a dry salad.
- Solution: If you’ve scaled up the recipe, make sure to prepare enough dressing to match the quantity of ingredients. Don’t be afraid to make extra dressing if you feel like the salad needs more moisture. You can always adjust as you go.
Skipping the Chilling Time for the Dressing
- Mistake: Not allowing the dressing to chill can result in a less cohesive flavor. Freshly made dressing may not have fully blended flavors, and the creamy texture may not be as smooth.
- Solution: After preparing the dressing, refrigerate it for at least 15–20 minutes before using. This allows the flavors to blend together, creating a more harmonious and creamy texture.
Using Too Many Ingredients
- Mistake: While it’s tempting to add extra ingredients, overcrowding the salad with too many elements can overpower the dish and make it less cohesive.
- Solution: Stick to the classic combination of chicken, macaroni, vegetables, and sweet ingredients. If you want to add other items, do so sparingly. A few tweaks to the base recipe can make a wonderful variation, but too many additions can muddy the flavors.
Forgetting to Garnish
- Mistake: Skipping the garnishing step can make the salad look plain or unappealing, especially when serving to guests.
- Solution: Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of cheese, raisins, parsley, or even some extra fruit pieces just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds texture and extra flavor to each bite.
Using Freshly Cut Veggies Without Proper Drying
- Mistake: Adding fresh, raw vegetables such as carrots or celery directly into the salad without ensuring they’re fully dried can introduce excess moisture, causing the dressing to become watery.
- Solution: After chopping vegetables, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. This will keep the salad’s texture intact and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a delicious, versatile dish that combines rich flavors with a variety of textures. Whether served as a festive centerpiece, a comforting side dish, or a make-ahead option for busy days, it remains a beloved part of Filipino cuisine. With its blend of protein, carbohydrates, and nutrients from vegetables and fruits, it can be both satisfying and nutritious when made with the right ingredients. By following the tips for preparation, customization, and presentation, you can create a salad that is not only tasty but also visually appealing. With a little attention to detail and creativity, your Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad will surely be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, offering both health benefits and comfort in every bite.
FAQS
Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. boneless chicken breast
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups Lady’s Choice Mayonnaise
- 1 can pineapple chunks 20 oz
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bottle pimiento 6.5 oz chopped
- 1 cup carrot chopped
- 1 piece green bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sweet relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons salt this will be used when boiling chicken and macaroni and as a seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Water for boiling
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken. Start to boil the chicken by pouring 1 quart water on a cooking pot over a stove top. Apply heat and let boil. Add 1 teaspoon salt and put the chicken breasts into the pot. Cover and boil in medium heat for 22 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot. Let it cool down. Manually shred into pieces and set aside.
- Prepare the macaroni by following package instructions. Boil 3 quarts water in a pot. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Pour the macaroni into the pot. Stir. Cover the pot and continue to boil the macaroni in medium heat for 9 minutes or until al dente. Make sure to stir every 3 minutes to prevent the macaroni from sticking to each other. Drain the water. Set macaroni aside.
- Arrange Macaroni in a large mixing bowl. Add shredded chicken. Toss.
- Put-in pineapple, pimiento, green bell pepper, raisins, carrot, sweet relish, and cheese. Toss until ingredients are blended.
- Add lady’s Choice Mayonnaise and garlic powder. Gently toss until well blended.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper.
- Serve! Share with the family and enjoy.