This colorful Mediterranean chicken pasta salad is packed with flavor! It has tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together nicely.
I love how easy it is to throw together. Perfect for a picnic or lunch, and leftovers taste even better the next day! Bring on the sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like rotini for its fun shape, but you can easily swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Use whole wheat for added fiber!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can substitute with grilled chicken strips, rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta alternative for a lighter taste.
Vegetables: Feel free to get creative! Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers are delicious, but you could also add spinach, arugula, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Getting the pasta just right is crucial for this salad. Here’s how to achieve that perfect al dente texture:
- Boil water in a large pot and add a generous amount of salt (like a teaspoon per quart). This gives the pasta flavor.
- Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the box for cooking time, but start testing for doneness a minute or two before the time is up.
- When it’s al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite, drain it immediately to stop the cooking process and rinse it under cold water. This keeps it firm and helps cool it fast.
Remember, the pasta will absorb some dressing as it sits, so you want it to hold its shape well! Enjoy making this fresh Mediterranean chicken pasta salad!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber slices (mini cucumbers or English cucumber)
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (marinated or plain)
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean chicken pasta salad will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator for the best flavor. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Then, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This dressing will bring the salad together!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, diced yellow bell pepper, artichoke hearts, olives, and red onion. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly with the dressing.
6. Finish with Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that extra fresh touch.
7. Chill & Serve:
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully together. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, and enjoy your vibrant Mediterranean chicken pasta salad!
This recipe is super easy to customize! Feel free to add or swap in your favorite veggies and herbs. Perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, or summer meals!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Substitute Other Pasta Types?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it a delight to eat the next day!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes! To save time, feel free to use pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken or leftovers from another meal. Just be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.
What If I Don’t Like Feta Cheese?
No problem! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, mozzarella, or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free option. The salad will still be tasty and satisfying!
