Description
A healthy and flavorful chicken pasta salad featuring whole-grain pasta, grilled chicken breasts, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing. This light and nutritious dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole-grain pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (remaining from the 1 tablespoon total)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the whole-grain pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the olive oil (about 1/2 tablespoon). Grill the chicken over medium heat or cook in a skillet for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Greek yogurt, and the remaining olive oil. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste until well combined and smooth.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil.
- Add the Chicken: Add the sliced grilled chicken breasts into the pasta and vegetable mixture.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as garnish just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor but pan-cooking works just as well.
- The Greek yogurt dressing is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise-based dressings.
- Chill the pasta salad for 30 minutes before serving for better flavor melding.
- Customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrition.
