Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb Pasta shells
• 2 Tbs Oil
• 1 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 3 Tbs Lemon juice
• 3 Tbs Chopped parsley
• 1 tsp Dried parsley
• 3 cup Diced cooked chicken
• 6 oz Jar artichokes, chopped
• 1 Dash of tabasco
• Toasted almonds

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water until tender, but firm, for 8 to 12 minutes, stirring often.
2. Drain the pasta well and rinse it with cold water. Shake out excess water and toss the pasta with oil.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dried parsley to make the dressing.
4. Place the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Add the mayonnaise mixture, diced chicken, chopped artichokes, and a dash of Tabasco. Toss well to coat everything with the dressing.
5. Garnish the pasta salad with toasted almonds.
6. For a decorative presentation, you can serve the salad in avocado halves, tomato cups, or on lettuce leaves.
7. Yields 6-8 servings.

Enjoy this delicious and creamy chicken and artichoke pasta salad!

Here are some variations you can try for the chicken and artichoke pasta salad:

1. MEDITERRANEAN STYLE: Add some Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to give the salad a Mediterranean twist. You can also toss in some cucumber slices and red onion for extra flavor.
2. GREEK YOGURT DRESSING: Substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to make the dressing lighter and tangier. Add some minced garlic and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
3. SPINACH AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES: Toss in some fresh baby spinach leaves and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to add color and a burst of flavor to the salad. The sun-dried tomatoes will lend a slightly sweet and savory taste.
4. MEXICAN STYLE: Spice things up by adding some chopped jalapenos or green chilies to the salad. Mix in some black beans and corn for a Mexican flair. Top it with a drizzle of lime juice for a zesty kick.
5. ASIAN INSPIRED: Swap the mayonnaise with a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dressing. Add some shredded carrots, edamame, and sliced scallions for extra crunch and color.
6. ITALIAN HERBS: Instead of dried parsley, use a mix of Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a more flavorful dressing. Add some diced roasted red peppers and marinated artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean vibe.
7. CURRY TWIST: Give the salad an exotic touch by incorporating a pinch of curry powder into the dressing. Mix in some golden raisins or chopped dried apricots for a touch of sweetness and texture.
8. CAESAR STYLE: Create a Caesar-inspired pasta salad by using Caesar dressing instead of the mayonnaise. Add some crispy bacon bits, chopped romaine lettuce, and shaved Parmesan for a Caesar salad twist.
9. CAPRESE STYLE: Give the salad an Italian twist by adding halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a light vinaigrette for a delightful Caprese flavor.
10. LEMON DILL: Replace the dried parsley with fresh dill and add a generous squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing. Toss in some finely chopped cucumber and thinly sliced radishes for a refreshing and tangy twist.
11. PINE NUT AND ARUGULA: Toast some pine nuts and toss them into the salad for a nutty crunch. Add a handful of arugula leaves for a peppery kick and a burst of green color.
12. THAI PEANUT: Create an Asian-inspired flavor by mixing peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of honey for the dressing. Add some chopped cilantro, sliced red bell peppers, and chopped peanuts for a Thai-inspired twist.