Zesty Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad with Poppy Seeds

Step 1

Begin by bringing a generously salted large pot of water to a lively boil. Toss in the penne pasta and let it dance in the bubbling water until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once ready, drain the pasta and give it a refreshing rinse under cold water until it feels cool to the touch. Make sure to drain it thoroughly.

Step 2

Now, transfer the cooled penne pasta into a spacious mixing bowl and get ready to create a vibrant medley. Combine the tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy cranberries, and fresh green onions with the pasta. Next, drizzle in the salad dressing and a splash of zesty lemon juice. Gently mix everything together until all the flavors harmonize beautifully. Feel free to garnish with some additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.