This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty olives, all tossed together for a lively dish.
You can serve it warm or chilled, making it perfect for any meal. I love packing this for lunch, and I can never resist sneaking bites straight from the bowl! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini or penne works great here, but you can switch it up with any pasta shape you have on hand, like fusilli or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is also a good choice if you’re looking for healthier options.
Chicken: I like using grilled or roasted chicken for flavor, but shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for protein instead.
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness, but feel free to mix in other favorites like bell peppers or spinach. Zucchini or artichoke hearts can also be fun additions!
Cheese: Feta brings a nice salty bite. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try crumbled goat cheese or vegan feta.
How Do I Make a Flavorful Dressing?
The key to a great pasta salad is a tasty dressing. This vinaigrette is simple and really brightens everything up. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with good quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
- Add red wine vinegar for tang. You can swap it for lemon juice or apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Mix in dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist, or use Italian seasoning for variety.
- Don’t forget the garlic – it adds a wonderful aroma! You can use garlic powder if you prefer less pungency.
- Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. Tasting is key, so adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Drizzle it over your salad and toss for that fresh zing!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or roasted)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This step is essential as it stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy. Drain well and set aside!
2. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red bell pepper, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. This colorful blend makes the salad not only delicious but also beautiful!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and emulsified. This dressing is going to bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated with that tasty dressing—you want every bite to burst with flavor!
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, stir in the chopped parsley and basil if you’re using it. Fresh herbs add a lovely aroma and flavor to the salad!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and makes it even more refreshing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, give the salad a gentle toss again. You can serve it cold or at room temperature. Enjoy this delicious salad as a perfect lunch or side dish at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne is recommended, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or grilled vegetables. You can also add more cheese or nuts for additional protein and flavor!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop, giving you an even tastier dish!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, you can add a little extra dressing before serving!
