This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful and yummy dish! It features tender chicken, pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing, bringing a taste of sunshine to your table.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up! It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and I usually make extra for leftovers. Who doesn’t enjoy a tasty meal that’s ready in no time? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini pasta for its ability to hold dressing and ingredients well. You can swap it for penne, farfalle, or any pasta you prefer. Whole wheat pasta is a great healthy alternative if you’re looking for more fiber.
Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken works best for flavor. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. You can also use chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Olives: Kalamata olives give a rich taste, but if you can’t find them, try black olives or green olives. Each type will bring a different flavor, so choose based on what you prefer.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based feta or even avocado for that creamy texture.
How Do I Easily Cook Perfect Pasta?
Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but getting it just right enhances your salad. Here are some tips to make sure your pasta is perfect:
- Use plenty of salted water! This helps flavor the pasta. Aim for about 1 tablespoon salt per gallon of water.
- Follow the package instructions but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. You want it al dente, or firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from getting mushy.
With these ingredients and tips, your Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad will be a hit at the table! Enjoy your meal prep! 😊
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes of preparation, then add another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and grill, bake, or pan-sear them until they’re fully cooked. Make sure they are nice and juicy! After they cool down, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces that are easy to mix into the salad.
3. Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, thinly sliced red onion, and halved Kalamata olives. Give everything a gentle stir to mix them together.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano (both in the dressing and salad), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the delicious dressing.
6. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and a bit more dried oregano on top of the salad for added flavor. If you want, taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it cold or at room temperature, and enjoy your vibrant Mediterranean feast!
This salad is perfect as a main dish or a side, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of fresh flavors. Bon appétit! 😊
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great due to its shape, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or lighter option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or even avocado for creaminess. Grilled shrimp or turkey would also work well if you prefer seafood or another protein.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your Mediterranean pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and you may want to add a bit more dressing if it seems dry after sitting.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This salad actually tastes better after it sits for a while as the flavors meld together. You can make it up to a day in advance—just be sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
