Name: Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) of whole wheat or regular pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini); 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; For the dressing:; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

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Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad You’ll Love 🥗🍗🍝

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad recipe! This vibrant and nutritious dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and authentic Mediterranean flavors to create a perfect meal for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for a lunch idea or a light dinner, this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad delivers on taste and health. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and ideal for those who love a healthy Mediterranean chicken pasta salad that’s rich in flavor and easy to make.

2. Ingredients for the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

8 oz (225 g) of whole wheat or regular pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Step-by-step Instructions for the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Prepare the pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down for the salad.

Grill and slice the chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Grill them on a hot grill or skillet until cooked through and nicely charred. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

Prepare the vegetables

Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. Mix together in a large bowl with Kalamata olives and chopped parsley for a fresh Mediterranean flavor profile.

Assemble the salad

Combine the cooled pasta, grilled chicken slices, and chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese for a creamy texture and authentic Greek-inspired flavor.

Create the dressing

Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the Mediterranean dressing.

4. Storage Tips for the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Store the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, add a sprinkle of feta and fresh parsley just before serving. For longer storage, keep the dressing separate and add it right before eating.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

This healthy Mediterranean chicken pasta salad is perfect on its own or served with warm crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light Greek yogurt dip.

6. Additional Tips and Variations

Customize with your favorite vegetables like roasted peppers or artichoke hearts.
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for different protein options.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.

If you love easy and flavorful recipes, check out our easy cheesy chicken garlic wraps or the creamy protein pasta bowl in 15 minutes for more quick meal ideas.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Q1: Is this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute grilled chicken with roasted chickpeas or tempeh, and replace feta with vegan cheese options for a plant-based version.

Q3: What are the best vegetables to add to this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad?

Besides the classic tomatoes and cucumbers, consider adding bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or roasted zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

8. Related Recipes for Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes

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9. Conclusion

In summary, the Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a nutrient-packed, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite ingredients, it’s perfect for healthy eating, quick weeknight dinners, or a refreshing lunch. Try this delicious Mediterranean chicken pasta salad today and enjoy a colorful, wholesome meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. For additional inspiration, visit our about page or check out our other recipes.

Healthy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad You’ll Love