Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables and tangy feta in a bright, herb-infused dressing. It is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is ideal for meal preparation, picnics or light dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced nutrition: high in protein and wholesome ingredients

• Vibrant flavours: lemon, red wine vinegar and oregano enliven the palate

• Textural variety: tender chicken, firm pasta, crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes

• Make-ahead convenience: flavours deepen when refrigerated

• Customisable: easily adapted with alternative pastas, vegetables or proteins

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts

• Olive oil

• Lemon juice

• Onion powder

• Garlic powder

• Ground cumin

• Salt

• Dried oregano

• Pasta (such as chickpea pasta, penne or fusilli)

• Cucumber, seeded and diced

• Spinach leaves

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Red onion, thinly sliced and rinsed

• Red wine vinegar

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Black pepper

• Feta cheese, crumbled

directions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.

2. Season and roast the chicken
   Preheat the oven to 200 °C (400 °F). In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano and salt. Coat the chicken breasts evenly, place in a baking dish, cover with foil and roast for 20 to 30 minutes until fully cooked. Allow to rest, then slice thinly.

3. Prepare the vegetables
   In a large bowl, combine halved tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion and spinach.

4. Make the dressing
   Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt and pepper until well emulsified.

5. Assemble the salad
   Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of vegetables. Pour over the dressing and toss gently. Top with sliced chicken and crumbled feta, mixing lightly to distribute evenly.

6. Serve or store
   Divide into individual portions or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate until serving.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Serves: 5

Variations

• Substitute orzo or pearl couscous for the pasta to alter the texture

• Add artichoke hearts and chickpeas for a fuller Mediterranean profile

• Replace spinach with arugula or mixed salad greens

• Use grilled shrimp or chickpeas in place of chicken for pescatarian or vegetarian options

• Incorporate kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for deeper flavour

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To preserve freshness, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving. If preferred slightly warm, allow the salad to reach room temperature or gently reheat the chicken before adding to the salad.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best in this salad?

Short, sturdy shapes such as penne, fusilli or bow ties work well. Chickpea or gluten-free varieties are suitable for dietary restrictions.

How can I ensure the chicken remains juicy?

Do not overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 74 °C (165 °F). Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes. Combine all ingredients except the dressing up to two days ahead. Store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to feta?

Vegan feta or crumbled tofu blended with lemon juice and herbs provides a similar tangy profile.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Store pasta, vegetables and dressing separately. Only dress the salad immediately before serving.

Can I add other proteins to this salad?

Grilled shrimp, smoked salmon or roasted chickpeas all serve as excellent alternatives to chicken.

What herbs complement this Mediterranean dish?

Fresh basil, parsley or dill add brightness when sprinkled on top before serving.

How can I adjust the acidity of the dressing?

Modify the ratio of olive oil to vinegar or lemon juice to taste, starting with a 3:1 oil-to-acid ratio and adjusting from there.

Are nuts or seeds a good addition?

Toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds add crunch and nutritional value.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Its flavours deepen over time, making it even more enjoyable after a day in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad offers a harmonious blend of flavours, textures and nutrition. Its make-ahead potential and adaptability to various dietary preferences make it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, gatherings or packed lunches. Enjoy crafting this vibrant salad and savouring its refreshing Mediterranean character.