This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is fresh and tasty! It combines juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and chewy pasta all tossed in a simple dressing.
Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, this salad is a hit! I love to add extra olives and feta for a little zing. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape holds onto dressings and ingredients nicely. If you’re out, any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle will work. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if needed!
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease! You can also swap it for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. It’s flexible!
Kalamata Olives: These add a wonderful briny flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives or even capers can work. Just adjust the saltiness in the dressing.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess. Go for goat cheese or even a vegan cheese if you prefer. Both will change the flavor slightly but still taste great!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial! Here’s how to get it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salting water is key for flavor.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, checking for al dente – it should be cooked but still firm.
- Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly. This helps with texture!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced into rounds
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes for chilling. Overall, you can expect about 45 minutes from start to finish, with the chilling time helping the flavors to blend together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, season it with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Let it cool, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
4. Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced yellow bell pepper, chopped artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and red onion. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add the Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly.
6. Finish with Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the salad. You can gently toss again or leave the feta on top for a nice presentation.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve your salad cold or at room temperature for a refreshing treat!
Enjoy your vibrant and refreshing Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad!
FAQs About Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this salad. Just ensure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan feta alternatives available in stores.
How Long Will Leftovers Keep in the Fridge?
Your leftover pasta salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to customize with veggies like spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even mixing!
