Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Meals

Summer calls for fresh, vibrant meals that are as satisfying as they are colorful. This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad recipe is a perfect blend of tender grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing.

It’s an ideal dish for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of protein, fiber, and fresh produce makes it both nutritious and delicious.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a wholesome meal, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

What makes this pasta salad stand out is its balance of flavors and textures, from the juicy chicken pieces to the crunchy veggies, all enhanced by a tangy and herby dressing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients according to your preference or what’s in season.

Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy cooks who want healthy meals without hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

It’s a complete meal packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious choice for any time of day. The pasta salad holds up well in the fridge, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Plus, the dressing is made from scratch, giving it a fresh, bright flavor that store-bought versions can’t match.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can customize the vegetables based on your favorites or what you have available.

Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas to make it vegetarian, or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. This recipe also doubles easily, making it great for entertaining or batch cooking.

Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• For the dressing:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: grill pan or skillet for cooking chicken

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, season 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper and grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop vegetables: While the pasta cooks and chicken rests, prepare the vegetables. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, shred carrots, finely chop red onion, and slice olives if using.
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chicken, vegetables, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
6. Add finishing touches: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
7. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To save time, use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to assemble the salad.

Mix up the veggies based on seasonal availability or your tastes. Try adding roasted zucchini, steamed broccoli, or fresh spinach for extra greens.

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu. If you prefer a creamier dressing, stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil or dill for varied flavors.

This salad also pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served on its own as a hearty lunch or light dinner. Pair it with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a satisfying meal.

It also works beautifully as a side dish alongside grilled meats or fish at a barbecue.

For a picnic or potluck, pack the salad in a sealed container and serve chilled. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon for brightness.

You can also add avocado slices or a dollop of pesto for a richer flavor profile. This salad pairs nicely with beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a tangy dressing offers a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or social gatherings, it’s a flexible recipe that caters to many tastes and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this salad is approachable, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. For more flavorful meal ideas, explore our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals or check out Chicken Veg Salad Recipe Easy and Healthy Meal Ideas for another fresh salad option.

For those interested in spice blends, our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend adds a punch of flavor to any dish.

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