Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and nutritious vegetables. This salad is not only delicious but also vibrant with flavors from the Mediterranean, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad ticks all the boxes.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a great way to enjoy a healthy and filling dish. It is packed with protein from the chicken and feta, and it includes fresh veggies that add crunch and nutrition. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be served cold, making it ideal for meal prep or summer gatherings.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbles
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest before dicing.
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions; drain without rinsing.
- Chop the vegetables and combine them with the pasta, chicken, feta, olives, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving chilled.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Serve Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad in a large bowl or individual plates. You can garnish it with extra feta cheese or herbs for added flavor. This salad is delicious on its own or can be paired with grilled veggies or bread to create a wholesome meal.
How to Store Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
To store Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If the salad gets too dry, you can add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.
- You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes for more variety.
- Make sure to chop the veggies evenly to ensure they mix well in the salad.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, you can skip the chicken and add more beans or chickpeas for protein. You can also customize the cheese by using mozzarella or goat cheese instead of feta.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Yes! Leftover chicken works great in this salad and saves time.Is it okay to use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast Seasoned and cooked in olive oil.
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta Boiled according to package instructions.
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup feta cheese crumbles
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil For drizzling.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest before dicing.
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions; drain without rinsing.
- Chop the vegetables and combine them with the pasta, chicken, feta, olives, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving chilled.