Mediterranean Bliss: Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Greek Chicken Pasta Salad. This dish combines tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Perfect for a family gathering, a light lunch, or even a picnic, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Equipment Needed:
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Start by grilling the chicken breasts. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
While the chicken is grilling, cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently mix everything together.
Prepare the dressing by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together to ensure the dressing coats all the components evenly.
Gently fold in the grilled chicken slices and chopped fresh parsley. Give the salad one final toss to distribute the chicken throughout.
Serve the Greek Chicken Pasta Salad immediately or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together even more.
Pairing Suggestions:
This Greek Chicken Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce. A simple side of mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette can also complement the robust flavors of the salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Greek lemon rice soup.
Making this dish is an absolute pleasure, and the vibrant, fresh ingredients will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a smile to your family's faces. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, knowing that you're serving a meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious.