Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

This hearty Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad has become my summer go-to for everything from quick weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings. The combination of protein-packed chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh Mediterranean ingredients creates a satisfying meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hot summer when turning on the oven seemed unbearable. What started as a refrigerator cleanout dish quickly became requested at every family gathering throughout the season.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Provides lean protein and makes this salad satisfying enough for a complete meal. Look for organic or free range options when possible.
• Penne or rotini pasta: Creates the perfect base to catch the dressing in all the ridges. The pasta texture matters so don't overcook.
• Cherry tomatoes: Add bursts of juicy sweetness and vibrant color. Choose ones that are deeply colored and fragrant.
• Cucumber: Brings refreshing crunch and helps balance the richness of other ingredients. English or Persian varieties work best.
• Red onion: Provides a sharp flavor contrast that brightens the entire salad. Soaking in cold water for 10 minutes beforehand reduces harshness.
• Feta cheese: Introduces tangy creaminess that defines Mediterranean flavor. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep milk offers the most authentic taste.
• Kalamata olives: Deliver that distinctive briny punch that makes this salad truly Mediterranean. Always use pitted ones to avoid surprise encounters.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing with its fruity notes. Invest in a good quality bottle as the flavor really shines here.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Season chicken breasts generously with salt pepper and Italian herbs before cooking. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Place chicken in the pan and cook without moving for about 6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for at least 5 minutes before dicing into bite sized pieces.

Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente usually 8 to 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse as the starch helps the dressing adhere better. Spread pasta on a baking sheet to cool quickly and prevent sticking.

Prepare the vegetables:

While the pasta cooks slice cherry tomatoes in half dice cucumber into quarter inch pieces and finely chop red onion. The uniform size ensures balanced flavor in every bite. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl large enough to accommodate the entire salad.

Assemble the salad:

Once pasta has cooled to room temperature add it to the bowl with vegetables. Add diced chicken feta cheese crumbles and kalamata olives. Gently fold everything together being careful not to break up the feta too much or crush the tomatoes.

Dress and season:

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Add dried oregano basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Save

The kalamata olives are my personal favorite ingredient in this dish. When I served this salad at my daughter's graduation party, even guests who claimed to dislike olives found themselves picking them out of the salad and enjoying them. Something about how the briny flavor melds with the other ingredients transforms them completely.

Make It Your Own

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad welcomes customization based on your preferences or what you have available. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add chickpeas or white beans for protein. Those following a gluten-free diet can substitute with their favorite gluten-free pasta without compromising the flavor profile.

Storage Tips

This salad maintains its quality remarkably well in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually develop and improve after the first day as the ingredients have time to mingle. I recommend bringing it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving leftovers and adding a small drizzle of fresh olive oil to revive the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

While perfect on its own as a complete meal, this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or garlic bread on the side. For a more elaborate spread, serve alongside grilled vegetables or a simple tomato soup. This versatile dish works equally well for casual family dinners or as part of an impressive buffet for entertaining.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese, small mozzarella pearls, or even cubed provolone. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese or add extra olives for that salty flavor component.

→ How long will this pasta salad keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this pasta salad will keep well for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil and lemon juice if refreshing leftovers.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and fold it into your pasta salad. This convenient option maintains the dish's flavor while cutting down on preparation time.

→ Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep. The hearty ingredients hold up well for several days, and the flavors actually improve over time. Portion it into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this pasta salad gluten-free, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of penne or rotini that work perfectly in this dish. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to package instructions, as gluten-free varieties sometimes have different cooking times.