Description
This refreshing Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of lean protein, crisp vegetables, and al dente rotini. Dressed in a bright lemon-herb vinaigrette, it captures the essence of fresh Mediterranean cuisine. It is ideal for meal prep and summer gatherings, offering a nutrient-dense and satisfying meal that tastes even better as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
16 oz rotini pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large English cucumber, diced
0.5 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
0.25 cup red onion, finely minced
0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente.
Drain pasta and rinse under cold water.
Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Sear chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, remaining oregano, and salt in a small bowl.
Combine cooled pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and onion in a large bowl.
Pour dressing over the salad and toss well.
Fold in the feta cheese gently to finish.
Notes
Dressing the pasta while it is still slightly warm helps the noodles absorb more flavor. If meal prepping, store the salad in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Feel free to substitute Rotini with Penne or Fusilli if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg