Pasta salads are a fabulous way to enjoy a delicious meal that is both filling and refreshing. They are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as an easy weeknight dinner. Today, we present to you a delightful recipe for Greek Chicken Pasta Salad. This dish is a flavorful twist on a classic pasta salad, combining tender chicken, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty Greek dressing. It’s a versatile dish that you can serve as a main course or a side dish, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
**Greek Chicken Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
7. Refrigerate the Greek Chicken Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional parsley and feta cheese, if desired.
Enjoy this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad as a satisfying meal on its own or as a delightful side dish to accompany grilled meats or seafood. It’s a vibrant and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends with its zesty Mediterranean flair. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear within minutes!
