This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is warm, colorful, and full of flavor! With juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tasty olives, it’s a dish that makes your taste buds dance.
You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. I often make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—meal prep made easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fusilli for this salad. They’re great for holding the dressing! You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just cook it until al dente for the best texture.
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breasts keeps it simple, but you can swap it with rotisserie chicken for a quick option. For a vegetarian twist, try chickpeas or cannellini beans.
Olives: Kalamata olives add a nice briny flavor. If you can’t find them, try green olives or omit them altogether based on your taste preference.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a nice creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, use tofu feta or simply leave it out.
Vegetables: Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have. Bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts will work well too!
How Do I Ensure the Dressing Coats the Pasta Well?
The dressing is crucial for flavor. To make sure it coats the pasta evenly, whisk the olive oil and vinegar well before mixing. Here’s a helpful tip:
- Start with less dressing and add more to your taste. You can always add more later!
- Make the dressing right before mixing it with the salad to keep the ingredients fresh.
Lastly, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows the pasta to absorb the dressing better, making every bite delicious!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in about 45 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced olives, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Give everything a gentle toss to mix it well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a tasty dressing!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a quick taste of the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs more salt or pepper, feel free to add it!
6. Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help all the flavors mingle together and taste amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. For a lovely finishing touch, you can garnish it with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne, rotini, or fusilli work great, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles are excellent alternatives for a healthier twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen as it sits, so it’s often even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a quick toss before serving to ensure the dressing is well distributed.
Is It Possible to Make This Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add more hearty ingredients like chickpeas or diced bell peppers. You can also include additional veggies for extra flavor and nutrition!
