Looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that combines the vibrant flavors of Greece with a protein-packed twist? Look no further than this Greek Chicken Protein Pasta Salad! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition. With tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty dressing, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 lb grilled chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of salted boiling water for the best flavor. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the grilled chicken. If you haven't done so already, grill the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced olives. Toss gently to mix the vegetables and cheese together.
- Add the cooled pasta and diced grilled chicken to the bowl with the vegetables. Gently fold the ingredients together to combine them evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing. Adjust the seasoning to taste if necessary.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Greek Chicken Protein Pasta Salad in bowls or on a platter, garnished with additional feta cheese or olives if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture. Don’t forget to salt your boiling water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta!
- Grilling Chicken: For juicy grilled chicken, let it rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables you can find. Crisp cucumbers and ripe cherry tomatoes will elevate the salad’s taste and texture.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Avocado, bell peppers, or even chickpeas can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes after dressing it. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with extra feta or olives just before serving for an appealing presentation. This not only enhances the look but also adds a burst of flavor!
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
