The Best Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

A fresh and flavorful chicken pasta salad made with grilled chicken, rotini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty dressing, this easy recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, picnics, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups rotini pasta

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, sliced or chopped

• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat until golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Add the sliced grilled chicken and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 5: Toss with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Add the fresh basil and parsley.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Toss gently before serving and add extra feta or fresh basil if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta Salad

• Cook pasta al dente: This helps it maintain its shape and texture.

• Use freshly grilled chicken: It adds a delicious smoky flavor.

• Choose good-quality olives and feta: They provide the classic Mediterranean taste.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours before serving for even better flavor.

• Adjust the dressing: Add extra lemon juice for brightness or olive oil if the salad seems dry.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Keep the salad chilled and discard it if it has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Chilling time: 20–30 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 1 hour

• Servings: 4–6

Enjoy this colorful Mediterranean-inspired chicken pasta salad as a satisfying main course or a delicious side dish!