Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Bright, fresh, and full of sunny flavor, this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that instantly feels like a mini getaway. Tender diced chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta come together in a light, zesty dressing that tastes even better after chilling. It’s ideal for quick lunches, easy dinners, meal prep, or bringing along to picnics and gatherings when you want something that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

This is one of those recipes that looks impressive on the table but is wonderfully simple to make. Minimal cooking, vibrant colors, and bold Mediterranean flavors make it a repeat-worthy favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite
• High in protein and packed with wholesome ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep, picnics, and make-ahead meals
• Easy to customize with your favorite veggies
• Delicious served chilled or at room temperature

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast, diced – Lean protein that makes the salad hearty and filling
• Penne or rotini pasta – Holds the dressing and mixes well with vegetables
• Cherry tomatoes, halved – Juicy and sweet, adding freshness
• Cucumber, diced – Cool and crisp for balance
• Red onion, finely chopped – Adds a mild bite and depth of flavor
• Feta cheese crumbles – Creamy and tangy, classic Mediterranean flavor
• Kalamata olives, pitted – Salty and briny for bold contrast
• Extra virgin olive oil – Smooth, rich base for the dressing
• Lemon juice – Brightens and ties all the flavors together

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken and cook it in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Resting the chicken keeps it juicy and tender.

Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain without rinsing so the pasta retains a bit of starch to help the dressing cling.

Prep the Vegetables

Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Keeping everything roughly the same size helps create balanced bites.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

Chill and Serve

Gently toss everything together until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Let the pasta cool slightly before mixing to prevent melting the feta
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor
• Chop ingredients evenly for a more cohesive salad
• Taste before serving and adjust salt, lemon, or olive oil as needed

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet for chicken
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Greek-style – Add oregano and a splash of red wine vinegar
• Low-carb option – Swap pasta for cauliflower florets or chickpea pasta
• Extra veggies – Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach
• Dairy-free – Skip feta or replace with a plant-based alternative

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mediterranean chicken pasta salad as a light main dish or alongside grilled vegetables, pita bread, or hummus. It also works beautifully as a side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or summer gatherings.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling and can be made up to 2 days in advance.

How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s a great time-saving option and works perfectly here.

What pasta shape works best?
Penne and rotini are ideal, but farfalle or fusilli also work well.

Can I add more dressing?
Yes, add extra olive oil and lemon juice just before serving if needed.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is fresh, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week, planning a picnic, or serving a crowd, this colorful salad brings bold flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean wherever you are.

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