CHICKEN, PASTA, GRAPE SALAD

Chicken, Pasta, Grape Salad image

Provided by Chris L.

Time 1h5m

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 c small shell pasta, cooked, rinsed & drained
2 1/2 c cooked, diced chicken breasts
1/2 c celery, diced fine
1 c seedless red grapes, halved
1/2 c mayonnaise
1/2 tsp curry powder
1/4 tsp cumin
2 Tbsp sweet rice wine (i use aji-mirin, japanese sweet cooking rice wine - found in asian section)
3 Tbsp sugar
salt & pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Blend mayo, sugar, rice wine, and spices in small bowl with whisk. NOTE: It is very important to use the right rice wine. You need sweet rice wine, not vinegar!
2. Cook, cool and dice chicken. Cook pasta per package directions, drain and run under cool water, drain again. In separate bowl combine diced chicken, pasta, grapes and celery. Add dressing and mix gently. Chill 2 hours. (I cook my chicken breasts in broth to boost the flavor.)
3. Note: If you make this and let it sit for a few hours, (or over night) it tends to soak up all the dressing. I usually double the dressing and add as needed.
4. Note II: If I intend this to be a main dish meal in the summer time I will add more chicken. Served with crusty bread it is a perfect, ready "when you are" meal.