This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful dish full of flavor! It’s packed with tender chicken, pasta, colorful veggies, and a tasty dressing that brings everything together.
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic! I often make a big batch, so I have leftovers for the next day—because who doesn’t love easy meals?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini for its fun shape that holds dressing well, but feel free to swap it out for penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is the star here. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver! You can also use grilled chicken or any leftover chicken you might have.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, but you can use any tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes if you want a different flavor. The cucumber gives crunch, while the bell pepper brings sweetness. Zucchini could work if you have it on hand.
Olives: Black olives are classic, but Kalamata olives add a nice, tangy kick. If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or substitute them with capers for a similar briny flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy texture and a salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with a sprinkle of salt or nutritional yeast for a bit of cheesiness.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Doesn’t Get Soggy?
Cooking pasta just right is key! Follow these tips to keep your rotini firm and tasty:
- Cook the pasta until it’s *al dente*, which means it should have a slight bite to it. This helps it hold up in the salad.
- As soon as it’s done, drain it and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly.
- Let the pasta dry a bit before tossing it with the dressing so it doesn’t absorb too much liquid.
These steps will help keep your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad fresh and enjoyable!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (or any shape of your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
Vegetables and Extras:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup olives (black or Kalamata), pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or jarred)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese and Dressing:
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. Additionally, it needs at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to chill, bringing your total time to around 45 minutes. A quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente—still a bit firm when you bite it. Once done, drain the pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced yellow bell pepper, sliced olives, chopped artichoke hearts, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it a good mix to combine everything.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it well to ensure all the flavors blend nicely.
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Then, fold in the crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it up too much. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so all those delicious flavors can meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s chilled, give the salad a stir and then serve it cold. You can garnish with extra parsley and feta if you’d like. Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the dressing, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente for the best texture!
How Can I Substitute the Chicken?
If you’re looking for a substitute for the cooked chicken, you can use grilled shrimp, canned tuna, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you choose raw shrimp—just cook them until pink and opaque before adding to the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making in advance! Prepare the pasta salad up to a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just hold off on adding the feta until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh and crumbly!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a little olive oil or vinegar to freshen it up before serving again.
