Chicken & Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken & Pasta Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish perfect for warm days or light lunches. Combining tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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 (rotini recommended)
• 1 lb chicken breast

Instructions

1. Step 1: 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.
2. Step 2: 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.
3. Step 3: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Peel and dice the cucumber. Finely chop the red onion.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Step 5: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion.
6. Step 6: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
7. Step 7: Divide the Chicken & Pasta Salad among six plates and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this refreshing salad.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some Italian dressing for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Substitute rotini with bowtie or penne pasta for a different texture.
• Add olives or bell peppers for additional color and taste.
• Use fresh mozzarella pieces instead of Parmesan for a creamier salad.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you prefer to avoid sogginess. Reheat the chicken pieces gently if desired, but the salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, bowtie, or fusilli works well in this salad. Just cook according to the package instructions.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. To maintain freshness, toss with dressing just before serving.

Chicken & Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 79 reviews

This Chicken & Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish combining tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Perfect as a light lunch or a delightful side for dinners, this salad balances protein and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Seasonings and Dressing

• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
2. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breast evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken rests, halve the cherry tomatoes, peel and dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, remaining salt, and black pepper until well combined, creating a flavorful dressing.
5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients.
6. Serve and enjoy: Divide the salad among six plates and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.

Notes

• Using rotini pasta holds the dressing well due to its shape.
• Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juiciness.
• Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops cooking and cools it for the salad.
• Feel free to substitute Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette if preferred.
• For added crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts.

Keywords: Chicken pasta salad, grilled chicken salad, Italian dressing salad, summer pasta salad, healthy chicken salad