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+ servings
Chicken Pasta Salad

Bright and Zesty Chicken Pasta Salad for Fresh Meal Vibes

This Chicken Pasta Salad bursts with vibrant flavors and colors, making it a delightful and healthy Mediterranean dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Cooked Chicken Breast Substitute with chickpeas for vegetarian
  • 8 ounces Penne or Rotini Pasta Whole wheat or gluten-free options work too
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved for even distribution
  • 1 medium Cucumber Peeling is optional
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Soaking in water can mellow intensity
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Reduced-fat or goat cheese can be used
  • 1/3 cup Kalamata Olives Ensure they are pitted
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil High-quality oil enhances flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs Blend of basil, oregano, and thyme

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest before dicing.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt. Stir in the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to cool.
  3. Prepare the vegetables by dicing the cucumber and halving the cherry tomatoes. Chop the red onion and soak briefly if desired.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Crumble in the feta and add the pitted olives.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkle in the Italian herbs, and toss gently to coat.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Can swap ingredients based on preferences or seasonal availability. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for presentation.

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