Brighten up your day with this Colorful Chicken Pasta Salad—a vibrant, nutritious meal filled with fresh veggies, lean chicken, and pasta, all tossed in a tangy dressing. Perfect for a picnic, potluck, or a healthy, filling lunch! 🍗🍅🫑🍝🌈✨
Colorful Chicken Pasta Salad 🍗🍅🫑🍝✨
Ingredients:
• For the Salad:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled or roasted and cubed
• 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup purple onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• For the Dressing:
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting it into bite-sized cubes.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad:
• In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken cubes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, purple onion, shredded carrots, parsley, black olives (if using), and feta (if using).
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve:
• Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.
Servings: 4-6
Calories: Approx. 400-500 per serving (depending on portion sizes and toppings)
This Colorful Chicken Pasta Salad is not only delicious but packed with vibrant veggies, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a satisfying meal on its own! 🍗🍅🫑🍝✨
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