This Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad is a bright and tasty dish! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon that makes every bite refreshing.
For me, this salad is great for meal prep. I can make a big batch and enjoy it all week. It’s like having sunshine ready in the fridge whenever I need a lift!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle adds a cute touch and holds onto dressing well. If you don’t have farfalle, use any pasta shape like penne, rotini, or fusilli for a yummy result.
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease—just shred it and you’re good to go! Grilled or poached chicken works too if you want something fresh from scratch.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill brighten the salad. If you’re out of dill, fresh basil or mint can bring a lovely twist. Dried herbs can work, though fresh is always better.
Lemon: The zest and juice add a fresh flavor. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can substitute—just be cautious with the amount as it can be more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil tops my list for its rich flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or a light vegetable oil can work, although the flavor will differ.
How Do I Properly Cook and Chill the Pasta?
Cooking pasta correctly is essential for this salad. You’ll want it al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water in a large pot, and don’t forget to salt it! This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for farfalle.
- Once cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Allow it to cool completely before adding to the salad mix to prevent wilting other ingredients.
Chilling the salad is key! It helps all the flavors blend beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can leave it for an hour, even better! Enjoy your refreshing pasta salad!
How to Make Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup celery, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time. You’ll spend a little time cooking the pasta and mixing everything together, and then just let it sit in the fridge to let those lovely flavors combine!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a bit of a bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This will help prevent it from getting mushy.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the shredded or diced chicken, chopped parsley, dill, sliced green onions, and chopped celery. Make sure everything is mixed together nicely!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This bright and zesty dressing will add fantastic flavor to your salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well coated. It’s great to see all those vibrant colors coming together!
5. Add the Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the salad for a cheesy flavor in every bite.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those wonderful flavors meld together!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a quick toss. You can add extra herbs or more grated cheese on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve it cold and enjoy your fresh, herby lemon chicken pasta salad! Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture in the salad!
Can I Substitute the Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute cooked chicken with any protein you like! Grilled shrimp, canned tuna, or a plant-based protein like chickpeas would all work nicely. Just be sure to keep the cooking method in mind if you choose raw options, as they will need to be cooked first.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to blend, making it even tastier the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors if needed!
