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chicken pasta salad recipe

Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad

Avatar photoNina Miller
A refreshing and nutritious chicken pasta salad perfect for any meal occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and a flavorful dressing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Lunch, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 grill pan

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz whole grain pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 red onion sliced

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing into strips.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  • While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and slice the red onion. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving

  • Once chilled, serve the salad in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Storage

  • Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavors. Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option. How to Serve: Pair with crusty bread or a light soup. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all ingredients a day in advance for easy assembly.
Keyword chicken pasta salad, cold pasta salad, healthy lunch ideas