Description
Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table. This vibrant dish features tender chicken breast, al dente pasta, and an array of fresh vegetables like juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a light lemon-olive oil dressing and seasoned with Italian herbs, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at gatherings. Easy to prepare in advance, it’s ideal for meal prep or impressing guests at your next barbecue.
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
Instructions
1. Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest before dicing.
2. Boil pasta according to package instructions; drain without rinsing.
3. Chop vegetables and combine them with pasta, chicken, feta, olives, and herbs in a large bowl.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture; toss gently to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving chilled.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken beforehand.
Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or use whole wheat/gluten-free pasta for variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 60