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Chicken & Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://dailysimplerecipe.com/chicken-and-pasta-salad-recipe/