Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad 🍗🍝🥒✨
Ingredients:
• For the Grilled Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• For the Pasta Salad:
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• For the Tzatziki Dressing:
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
• Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Tzatziki Dressing:
• In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Stir until smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a bit more olive oil or lemon juice if needed.
4. Assemble the Pasta Salad:
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives (if using), and feta cheese (if using).
• Add the grilled chicken pieces and drizzle the tzatziki dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
5. Serve:
• Serve the Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled version.
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 350-450 per serving (depending on portion sizes and toppings)
This Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of creamy, fresh, and flavorful elements, offering a satisfying meal that’s both light and hearty. It’s great for meal prep, picnics, or a light dinner! 🍗🍝🥒✨
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