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Chicken Pasta Salad

Delicious Chicken Pasta Salad for Summer Picnics

This Chicken Pasta Salad combines juicy grilled chicken and crunchy vegetables, making it a perfect summer dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces pasta Any shape, whole grain or gluten-free options work
  • 2 breasts chicken breast Boneless and skinless, can substitute with grilled tofu
  • 1 medium cucumber Adds crunch; substitute with bell peppers if desired
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved, substitutes include sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 medium red onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste
  • 1 cup bell peppers Mix red, green, and yellow for color
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley Can substitute cilantro or basil
  • 2 stalks green onion Omit for a smoother flavor or replace with chives
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil Avocado oil can be used as a substitute
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice Lime juice can substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Use yellow mustard if desired
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh and minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey Maple syrup can also be used
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative
  • to taste salt Adjust to your preference
  • to taste pepper Adjust to your preference
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Can substitute with fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Sweet paprika can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Alternatively use dried oregano and basil

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Medium jar
  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Shake until well emulsified. Set aside.
    Chicken Pasta Salad
  2. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill on medium-high for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Let rest and chop.
    Chicken Pasta Salad
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
    Chicken Pasta Salad
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, grilled chicken, cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Mix well.
    Chicken Pasta Salad
  5. Drizzle lemon dressing over salad and toss to coat everything evenly. Add more dressing if desired.
    Chicken Pasta Salad
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
    Chicken Pasta Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Consider chilling for best flavor.

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