If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, vibrant dish that brings together the perfect balance of taste and nutrition, look no further than this Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s a fantastic blend of tender chicken, hearty high-protein pasta, crisp veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing that elevates every bite. Whether you need a quick lunch, a filling dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this salad checks all the boxes with its satisfying textures and vibrant flavors that make healthy eating absolutely enjoyable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this salad right is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in creating a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Every element adds something special, from the protein boost to the refreshing crunch and creamy dressing.
- 8 oz high-protein pasta: Chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat pasta brings extra protein and a wonderful chewy texture to the salad.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Diced or shredded for lean protein that makes the salad truly hearty.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved for bursts of juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- ½ cup cucumber: Diced cucumber adds refreshing crunch and coolness.
- ½ cup bell peppers: Diced for sweetness and a crisp bite that complements every forkful.
- ¼ cup red onion: Thinly sliced to bring a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup black olives (optional): Sliced for a slightly briny contrast that adds complexity.
- ½ cup feta cheese or shredded Parmesan: For creamy saltiness that perfectly balances the fresh veggies.
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy, protein-rich base for the dressing.
- 2 tbsp hummus or light mayo: Adds richness and a silky texture to the dressing.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Gives the dressing a bright, zesty lift.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For smoothness and subtle fruity flavor in the dressing.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and depth to the dressing.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Brings a fragrant, herbal touch that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything into perfect harmony.
How to Make Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the High-Protein Pasta
Start by cooking your chosen high-protein pasta according to the package instructions. This step ensures your pasta is perfectly tender, creating the ideal base for your salad. Once cooked, drain and set it aside to cool slightly, so it doesn’t wilt the fresh vegetables later.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta with the diced or shredded chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives if you’re using them. This mixture brings a delightful medley of colors, textures, and natural sweetness that makes the salad so inviting.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, your choice of hummus or light mayo, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Whisk these together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the secret hero, adding tangy richness that binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 4: Toss and Season
Pour the dressing over your pasta and chicken mixture. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss everything together, making sure every bite is coated with that luscious dressing. Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh, lively experience, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and enjoy a deliciously chilled dish. Both ways offer a fantastic eating experience, so it’s up to your mood and schedule!
How to Serve Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving for an extra burst of flavor and stunning presentation. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top can enhance the richness and make it feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This protein-packed chicken pasta salad pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides like crusty whole-grain bread, a crisp green side salad, or roasted veggies. It also works beautifully on its own as a complete meal thanks to its balanced protein and veggie content.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes to amp up the charm and add an element of surprise. You can also pack it in mason jars for convenient, portable lunches that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe keeps very well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve crispness and freshness. Give it a gentle stir before serving again since some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and yogurt-based dressing, freezing is not recommended for this salad as it may alter the texture and flavor negatively. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
While this salad tastes best cold or at room temperature, you can allow it to sit out for about 15 minutes if chilled too much from the fridge. If you want a warm meal, it’s better to heat the chicken and pasta before mixing with fresh veggies and dressing rather than reheating the whole salad.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While high-protein pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta adds a nutritional boost, you can use whole wheat or even regular pasta if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the protein content will vary.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the dressing?
You can swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative without sacrificing too much creaminess. Just choose a thick variety to keep the dressing’s texture on point.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. It’s fully cooked and flavorful, making it an effortless way to get the chicken component into your Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Feel free to include chopped spinach, arugula, or even roasted zucchini for extra nutrients and variety. The salad is quite adaptable to whatever fresh veggies you love.
What’s the best way to keep the salad from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, make sure your pasta is drained well and cooled before combining, and keep dressing separate until just before serving if preparing in advance. Also, cucumbers and tomatoes release water, so drain excess moisture if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form—healthy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe delivers every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly delicious nutritious eating can be!
Print
Protein-Packed Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A nutritious and protein-packed chicken pasta salad featuring high-protein pasta, diced chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based dressing. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner, offering a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be served immediately or chilled.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup bell peppers, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
Dressing
- ½ cup feta cheese or shredded Parmesan
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp hummus or light mayo
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the high-protein pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to cool to room temperature or slightly warm.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced or shredded cooked chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell peppers, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced black olives if using.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the feta cheese (or shredded Parmesan), plain Greek yogurt, hummus or light mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and dried oregano until smooth and creamy.
- Toss salad and season: Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture and toss thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to combine flavors.
- Serve: Serve the pasta salad immediately for a fresh taste or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
- Use high-protein pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or whole wheat to boost nutritional value.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute hummus with light mayonnaise or use all Greek yogurt.
- The salad can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days; stir well before serving.
- Optional black olives add a briny flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Feel free to customize vegetables based on seasonal availability.
