This Chicken Pasta Salad is your go-to for a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that screams summer. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty yogurt-based dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick lunch. Whether you’re craving a Cold Chicken Pasta Salad or a vibrant Summer Pasta Salad, this recipe is versatile, easy to whip up, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Ideal for meal prep or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, it’s a must-try for any food lover.
Why This Chicken Pasta Salad Shines
This Summer Salad is a winning combination of lean protein, fiber-rich pasta, and colorful veggies, making it as nutritious as it is delicious. The creamy, tangy dressing ties it all together without weighing you down, perfect for hot summer days. It’s customizable to suit any palate—add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein for a personalized twist. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients
Base:
- 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
Dressing & Boosters:
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded Parmesan
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayo or hummus
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down and prevent sticking.
- Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken or quickly grill, bake, or pan-sear chicken breasts. Dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo or hummus, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, veggies, and feta or Parmesan. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing Summer Pasta Salad.
Variations to Try
Make this Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe your own with these fun twists:
- Vegan Option: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use plant-based yogurt and cheese.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, avocado, or shredded carrots for more crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Pro Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Save time with rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken strips.
- Rinse pasta under cold water to keep it firm and prevent sogginess.
- For a creamier dressing, add an extra tablespoon of hummus or mayo.
- Boost protein with chickpeas, quinoa, or a sprinkle of nuts.
- Store in portioned containers for easy meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
This Cold Chicken Pasta Salad is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, crusty bread, or a light soup. It’s a fantastic addition to summer barbecues, picnics, or potlucks, where its vibrant colors and fresh flavors steal the show.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the pasta and veggies may lose texture.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the salad a day in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick grab and-go meal.
FAQs About Chicken Pasta Salad
- Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Try whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta for variety. - How long does it last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, but the homemade yogurt dressing adds a protein-packed, tangy flair. - Is it good for meal prep?
Perfect! Portion it out for easy lunches all week. - Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a fiery twist.
More Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love
Conclusion
This Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh, healthy, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or prepping lunches for the week, this Summer Pasta Salad Recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease. Customize it to your heart’s content and enjoy a refreshing meal that keeps you coming back for more.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Base:
- 8 oz high-protein pasta chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup cucumber diced
- ½ cup bell peppers any color, diced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup black olives sliced (optional)
Dressing & Boosters:
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded Parmesan
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayo or hummus
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down and prevent sticking.
- Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onion. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken or quickly grill, bake, or pan-sear chicken breasts. Dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo or hummus, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, veggies, and feta or Parmesan. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing Summer Pasta Salad.
Notes
- Save time with rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken strips.
- Rinse pasta under cold water to keep it firm and prevent sogginess.
- For a creamier dressing, add an extra tablespoon of hummus or mayo.
- Boost protein with chickpeas, quinoa, or a sprinkle of nuts.
- Store in portioned containers for easy meal prep.
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