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Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad

Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh veggies come together in a zesty dressing, creating a delightful meal that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or a family dinner, this salad is quick to make and easy to customize, ensuring it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-cook over medium-high heat until golden brown and fully cooked (6-7 minutes per side). Let rest before slicing.
  2. In salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
  3. Dice cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  5. In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta, chopped veggies, sliced chicken, and feta cheese if using. Drizzle with dressing and mix gently.
  6. Transfer to plates or bowls and garnish with extra feta or herbs if desired.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling/Pan-cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Substitute chicken with turkey for a different protein option. For added crunch, consider mixing in nuts like almonds or walnuts. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.