Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Feta Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty Greek-style dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner. The combination of Mediterranean flavors makes it both nutritious and flavorful.

ingredients

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

cooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
cooked and shredded or diced chicken breast
feta cheese, crumbled
cherry tomatoes, halved
cucumber, diced
red onion, thinly sliced
kalamata olives, pitted and halved
fresh parsley, chopped
extra virgin olive oil
red wine vinegar
lemon juice
garlic, minced
dried oregano
salt and pepper

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as needed.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use grilled chicken thighs for a juicier protein option.
Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.
Swap feta with goat cheese for a different tang.
Include spinach or arugula for added greens.
Try a whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.

storage/reheating

Store Greek Feta Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This salad is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating.
If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, refresh with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for prepping the day before—just give it a quick stir before serving.

What kind of pasta works best?
Short pastas like rotini, penne, or farfalle are great because they hold the dressing well.

Can I use store-bought Greek dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing provides the freshest flavor.

Is this salad suitable for picnics or potlucks?
Absolutely, it travels well and tastes great cold.

Can I omit the olives?
Yes, adjust ingredients based on personal preference.

Is it good for meal prep?
Definitely, it holds up well for several days in the fridge.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a convenient and flavorful shortcut.

Is feta cheese necessary?
It’s key to the Greek flavor, but you can use alternatives like cotija or goat cheese.

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Rinse it under cold water after cooking and toss with a bit of olive oil before mixing.

Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables and pasta may suffer.

Conclusion

Greek Feta Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping lunches, or craving a wholesome meal, this salad delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease. Give it a try and savor the balance of tangy, fresh, and savory in every bite.