Description
Mediterranean-inspired Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad brings tangy feta, herb-infused dressing, and succulent grilled chicken together in one refreshing dish. Crisp vegetables and perfectly seasoned pasta create a light, satisfying meal perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
Dressing and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then rinse under cold water to halt cooking and prevent sticking.
- Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniform pieces for consistent flavor distribution.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half, finely chop red onion, and cut cucumber into small, uniform chunks.
- Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper in a separate mixing bowl until smooth and well-blended.
- Gently fold pasta, chicken, tomatoes, onion, and cucumber together in a large serving bowl.
- Pour prepared creamy dressing over the pasta mixture, using a spatula to coat ingredients evenly and thoroughly.
- Refrigerate salad for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop a richer taste profile.
- Before serving, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, herbal garnish.
- Serve chilled and enjoy within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
Notes
- Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate different dietary needs and boost nutritional value.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter, healthier dressing that still provides creamy texture.
- Customize protein by using grilled shrimp, tofu, or rotisserie chicken for varied flavor profiles and dietary preferences.
- Prepare ingredients ahead of time and store separately to maintain crispness and prevent soggy salad, keeping components fresh until serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg