Flavorful Greek Chicken Pasta Salad for Summer BBQs

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s an explosion of flavors that dances on your palate like it’s training for a salsa competition. Picture juicy chicken, al dente pasta, vibrant veggies, and a zesty dressing mingling together in perfect harmony. This salad will have you questioning if it’s too much to eat straight from the bowl while binge-watching your favorite show. Spoiler alert: It’s not. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.

Now, let me take you back to that summer BBQ where my Aunt Marge brought her famous Greek Chicken Pasta Salad. It was so good that I may or may not have elbowed my cousin out of the way for the last serving. From that moment on, I knew this salad would be my go-to for every potluck and picnic. The best part? It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for those days when your calendar looks like a game of Tetris.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly, but feel free to adjust based on your guest list.
• Pasta: Use rotini or penne for their ability to hold onto all that delicious dressing.
• Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add a nice crunch; choose firm ones for the best texture.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little poppers bring sweetness and color; they should be ripe but not squishy.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a zesty kick; soak them in cold water if you prefer less bite.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; opt for Greek feta if possible.

For the Dressing:

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is key for flavor; don’t skimp on this one!
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up—bottled just won’t do.
• Dried Oregano: This herb is essential for that Mediterranean flair; feel free to go fresh if you have it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While waiting on the pasta, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

Dice the cucumbers and halve the cherry tomatoes while your chicken cools down. Add them to a large mixing bowl with thinly sliced red onions.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—don’t worry; we won’t judge if you sneak a taste!

Step 5: Combine Everything

In your mixing bowl with veggies, add cooked pasta and sliced chicken. Pour in the dressing and gently toss everything together until coated evenly.

Step 6: Add Feta

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top before giving everything one last gentle toss.

Transfer to plates or a big serving bowl, drizzle with extra dressing if desired, and enjoy! This dish can be served immediately or chilled in the fridge for an hour—just remember that good things come to those who wait!

And there you have it—a colorful Greek Chicken Pasta Salad that’s bound to impress friends at gatherings or provide delightful lunches throughout your week! So grab your fork (or just dive right in), because this flavor-packed salad is ready to rock your culinary world!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in all that juicy goodness. While that’s sizzling away, cook your pasta al dente and prepare the dressing. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, making dinner feel like a well-rehearsed dance rather than a chaotic kitchen disaster.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or roasted veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. Ditch the feta if you prefer a dairy-free version, and add some olives or capers for an extra zing. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customization!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil and toss gently over low heat to revive the flavors without drying anything out.

I remember the first time I made this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad for a family gathering; everyone raved about it! My cousin even asked if I could cater his next birthday party—talk about pressure!

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for Greek Chicken Pasta Salad?

To make a delicious Greek Chicken Pasta Salad, you’ll need rotini pasta, grilled chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. For the dressing, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a refreshing and vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion. You can customize your salad by adding bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients. The balance of flavors from the tangy feta cheese and the zest of lemon makes it a delightful dish. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.

How long does Greek Chicken Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier on the second day. However, keep in mind that fresh vegetables may lose some crunch over time. To maintain the best texture and flavor, consider adding the dressing just before serving if you plan to store leftovers. This way, you can enjoy a fresh-tasting salad every time.

Can I make Greek Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing Greek Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time is a great idea for meal prep or gatherings. You can cook the pasta and grill the chicken a day in advance. Chop your vegetables and store them separately until you’re ready to mix everything together. Flavorful Antipasto Salad This method ensures that your salad stays fresh and crunchy when served. Crunchy Broccoli Salad Just remember to add the dressing shortly before serving to keep all ingredients vibrant and flavorful.

Is Greek Chicken Pasta Salad healthy?

Yes, Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is a healthy choice! It combines lean protein from grilled chicken with whole grains from pasta and plenty of fresh vegetables. The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats while feta cheese adds calcium and flavor without excessive calories. Grilled Chicken Burrito You can also modify it to fit dietary needs by using whole wheat pasta or reducing cheese for a lighter version. Overall, this salad offers a balanced meal packed with nutrients.

Conclusion for Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

In summary, Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that combines tasty ingredients like grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. Ideal for meal prep or gatherings, it remains flavorful even when stored in the fridge. By preparing this salad ahead of time and adjusting its ingredients to meet dietary preferences, you ensure everyone enjoys this healthy option full of vibrant flavors. Whether served at lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

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• Author: Sally
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep, this salad is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your tastes. Dive into this colorful medley that promises to impress at any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups rotini pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Allow resting before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
4. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
5. Add the cooled pasta and sliced chicken to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg