Description
Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish made with tender chicken, pasta, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and parsley.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add feta or mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Can be made a day ahead; just add dressing before serving for best texture.
- Customize with your favorite veggies or dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg