Chicken & Pasta Salad
Why make this recipe
Chicken & Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for any occasion. It is light, refreshing, and packed with protein, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. This salad combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and flavorful pasta all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. It’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or gatherings.
How to make Chicken & Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber
- 1/2 red onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup basil leaves
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Season the chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Peel and dice the cucumber. Finely chop the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Divide the Chicken & Pasta Salad among six plates and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this refreshing salad.
How to serve Chicken & Pasta Salad
Chicken & Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish or a side. To serve it, simply scoop the salad onto plates or bowls. It pairs well with garlic bread or a light dessert for a complete meal.
How to store Chicken & Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a little more dressing before serving.
Tips to make Chicken & Pasta Salad
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- To make it a little heartier, add some beans or chickpeas for additional protein.
Variation
You can easily switch up the protein by using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. For a gluten-free option, replace the pasta with quinoa or rice.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
What kind of pasta works best in this salad?
Rotini, penne, or even bowtie pasta work great in this salad. They hold the dressing well and add a nice texture.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker and easier to prepare. Just chop it up and mix it in!
Chicken & Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Season the chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, peel and dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Divide the Chicken & Pasta Salad among six plates and serve immediately.
Notes
