Description
A vibrant and healthy chicken pasta salad featuring whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a light main course or meal prep, this salad is refreshing, nutritious, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 3 cups cooked whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken breast
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the whole wheat pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to cool completely, preventing further cooking and sticking.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with diced chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed to taste.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the olive oil with Greek yogurt.
- Add extra vegetables like fresh spinach or sliced avocado to increase nutrition and flavor.
