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Creamy Ham and Chicken Macaroni Salad

Creamy Ham and Chicken Macaroni Salad

Creamy Filipino style macaroni salad made with chicken, ham, fruits, vegetables, and a rich mayonnaise and cream dressing.

⏱ Prep: 25 min ⏱ Cook: 20 min

Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless chicken breast (cooked and diced)
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 6 oz ham (small dice)
  • 250 ml Nestlé All Purpose Cream
  • 12 oz pineapple tidbits (drained)
  • 1 piece green bell pepper (small dice)
  • 2 piece medium carrots (small dice)
  • 1 piece medium red onion (small dice)
  • 1.5 cup raisins
  • 1.25 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 4 oz pimiento (chopped)
  • 3.25 cup cheddar cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1.5 tsp onion powder
  • 1.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 3 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 quarts water

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni – Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a cooking pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook for about 8 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the chicken – Using the same pot, boil the chicken breast in fresh water for about 12 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then dice into small cubes. Discard the water.

  3. Mix the base – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons salt, and ground black pepper. Gently fold until the macaroni is evenly coated.

  4. Add proteins and vegetables – Add the diced chicken, ham, pineapple tidbits, bell pepper, carrots, red onion, raisins, sweet pickle relish, pimiento, onion powder, and garlic powder. Fold until all ingredients are well distributed.

  5. Add cream and cheese – Pour in the Nestlé All Purpose Cream and add the grated cheddar cheese. Continue folding until the salad becomes creamy and well blended.

  6. Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.

  7. Serve – Transfer to a serving bowl before serving.

  8. Share and enjoy!