Name: Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded; 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowties); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is loaded with fresh flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a delicious balance of textures. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course yet light and refreshing. The Mediterranean dressing ties everything together with tangy, herby goodness, making it a dish that’s both nutritious and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
Pasta (penne, rotini, or bowties work well)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, diced
Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Feta cheese, crumbled
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and feta.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors develop.

Servings and timing

Serves 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad: Use grilled chicken for extra smoky flavor.
Creamy Dressing: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for creaminess.
Extra Veggies: Toss in artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or spinach.
Whole Grain Twist: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier option.
Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tuna for a different protein.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Toss gently before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Not suitable for freezing, as the pasta and vegetables will lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours.

What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pasta like penne, rotini, or bowties holds up well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a quick and flavorful option.

Is this served cold or warm?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I add chickpeas for extra protein?

Absolutely, chickpeas work beautifully in this salad.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Rinse it under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese, mozzarella pearls, or shaved Parmesan are great options.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, prepare it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Add watery vegetables like cucumbers just before serving.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines the best of protein, pasta, and vegetables in one bowl. Easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for sharing, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or summer gatherings.