Description
This Chicken Pasta Salad is loaded with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s hearty, refreshing, and ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle), cooled
1½ cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup diced cucumber
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
For the Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, cheese (if using), and herbs.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine and coat all ingredients.
5. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Add avocado or olives for extra creaminess or tang.
Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days—just refresh with a splash of dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: chicken pasta salad, meal prep salad, summer potluck recipe