Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Any Occasion

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. As someone who loves exploring diverse cuisines, I find this salad to be a perfect blend of taste and texture. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Historically, Mediterranean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and healthy fats, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious.

People adore Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad for its versatility and convenience. It’s an ideal dish for meal prep, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. The zesty dressing, infused with herbs and spices, elevates the dish, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-make recipe that captures the essence of Mediterranean dining!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the rotini pasta. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. I like to taste it a minute or two before the time is up to ensure it’s just right. 4. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps cool it down for the salad. 5. Set the pasta aside to drain completely while you prepare the other ingredients.

Preparing the Vegetables and Chicken

6. While the pasta is cooking, take your cooked chicken and shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it’s super convenient and adds great flavor. 7. Next, wash and prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. I find that using a sharp knife makes this process much easier and safer. 8. Slice the Kalamata olives in half or quarters, depending on your preference. I love the briny flavor they add to the salad. 9. Finally, chop the fresh parsley. This will add a lovely freshness to the dish.

Making the Dressing

10. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and dried oregano. I like to use a fork for this, as it helps emulsify the dressing nicely. 11. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

Combining Everything

12. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. 13. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. I like to drizzle it evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful. 14. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to break the pasta or feta too much; you want to keep that lovely texture. 15. Once everything is well combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes, I like to add a little more lemon juice for brightness or a sprinkle of extra oregano.

Chilling and Serving

16. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. I find that this step really enhances the taste of the salad. 17. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss again. If it seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit more dressing. 18. Serve the Mediterranean chicken pasta salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. I love garnishing it with a few extra crumbles of feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Tips

19. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad keeps well for about 3 days. Just remember that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a little more dressing before serving again. 20. This salad is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or as a side dish for barbecues. It’s versatile, and you can easily customize it by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, artichokes, or even some grilled shrimp for a twist. Enjoy your Mediterranean chicken pasta salad! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with

Conclusion:

In summary, this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with a dish that is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese creates a delightful medley that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish at a summer barbecue, or a hearty dinner, this salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this salad with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the Mediterranean flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for grilled shrimp or adding roasted vegetables for a delightful twist. I encourage you to give this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do. Happy cooking! Print

May 25, 2025 by Melissa