Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: Greek Chicken Pasta Salad! This delightful salad is like a burst of sunshine in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it. I had a few friends over for a sunny picnic day in the backyard, and I wanted something refreshing yet filling. After a long day of tossing ideas around, I finally landed on this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and that delicious aroma wafting through the air are memories I cherish.
What I love most about this salad is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main dish, a side, or even take it to your next potluck! Everyone loves a good pasta salad, but the addition of Greek flavors, like tangy feta and zesty olives, elevates it to a whole new level. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to!
What’s in Greek Chicken Pasta Salad?
Pasta: The base of this dish! I usually go for rotini or penne because those twists and tubes hold onto the dressing beautifully.
Chicken: Grilled chicken adds protein and makes this a hearty meal. I love to marinate it in garlic, lemon juice, and oregano for that extra flair!
Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, cucumbers add a delightful crunch and a refreshing taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and slightly sweet, these little gems bring some vibrant color to the salad.
Red Onion: For a bite of flavor that brightens everything up! Just a little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it unless you’re a fellow onion lover like me.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is a must! It adds creaminess and tang—like a Greek vacation in every bite.
Black Olives: I prefer Kalamata olives for their robust flavor. They add that classic Mediterranean taste that ties this dish together.
Oregano: Dried oregano is essential for that aromatic Greek flavor. I like to use quality, organic oregano for the best taste.
Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: The dressing! A mixture of olive oil and fresh lemon juice keeps everything nice and bright.
Is Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutritious ingredients.
Pasta: Provides carbohydrates for energy, and if you opt for whole grain pasta, you’re adding extra fiber to your diet.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, ideal for muscle building and recovery after workouts.
Cucumbers: Low in calories and high in water content, they help keep you hydrated.
Cherry Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamins A and C, they’re great for skin health and have antioxidants that fight free radicals.
Feta Cheese: While it does add some fat, it also provides calcium and protein! Just watch the portion size if you’re watching your calorie intake.
The only thing to consider is that depending on how much olive oil and cheese you use, the calories can add up. So, be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your diet. But hey, it’s all about balance, right?
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini or penne pasta (serves 4-6)
– 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
– 1 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Greek Chicken Pasta Salad?
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down the pasta and stop the cooking process.
2. **Prep the Chicken:** While the pasta is cooking, grill your chicken breasts (or use leftover grilled chicken). Slice them once they’re done.
3. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, olives, and oregano.
4. **Dress it Up:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine.
5. **Serve:** You can enjoy this salad right away or let it chill in the fridge for an hour. It tastes even better the longer it sits!
More Than Just a Salad: The Ultimate Greek Chicken Pasta Experience
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can throw in some roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor. Want it spicy? Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. The world is your oyster—or should I say, your pasta salad! Serve it alongside some crusty bread and a glass of iced tea, and you’ve got a perfect meal.
I hope you give this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad a try! It’s simple, delicious, and brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. If you do make it, I would love to hear how it goes! Share your creations, and let’s swap stories of summer picnics and get-togethers!
