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–+ servings
Chicken Pasta Salad

Zesty Chicken Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer Feasts

This refreshing Chicken Pasta Salad with Lemon Parmesan Dressing is perfect for summer feasts.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces short pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 pieces grilled chicken breasts marinated for better flavor
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced can substitute with zucchini or bell peppers
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or chopped regular tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced or shallots/green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1 piece bell pepper, diced preferably sweet varieties
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped or basil/cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil can substitute with avocado oil
  • 1 piece lemon, juiced fresh for best results
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard can replace with lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or garlic powder as alternative
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or sugar as a substitute
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free
  • garlic powder, to taste for seasoning
  • paprika, to taste for seasoning
  • Italian seasoning, to taste for seasoning
  • salt, to taste for seasoning
  • pepper, to taste for seasoning

Equipment

  • Grill
  • medium jar
  • Large pot
  • Large bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Combine the dressing ingredients in a medium jar and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness, season, and grill for 4-5 minutes each side until cooked.
  3. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, grilled chicken, parsley, and green onions.
  5. Drizzle dressing over salad, toss gently to combine, and let chill in the refrigerator.
  6. Serve chilled and enjoy your vibrant Chicken Pasta Salad!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes for better flavor infusion. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for extra flavor.

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