If you’ve been hunting for a vibrant, satisfying dish that packs in flavor, texture, and a touch of elegance, look no further than this Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe. It’s a perfect medley of tender chicken, crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, bringing a dish to a gathering, or simply craving something fresh and hearty, this salad is a colorful and versatile winner you’re going to adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this recipe shine. Each element plays a vital role in balancing the flavors and adding different textures and colors to create a salad that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 2 cups cooked and cooled pasta (penne or rotini): These shaped pastas hold onto the dressing and mix-ins beautifully, giving every bite a perfect balance of flavor.
- 1 ½ cups cooked and chopped chicken breast: Adds protein and a tender, juicy texture that makes the salad filling and nutritious.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their sweetness and juiciness brighten the salad, providing bursts of fresh flavor.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: Adds a refreshing crunch and coolness that complements the richer ingredients.
- ½ cup black olives, sliced: Bring a salty, briny kick that deepens the salad’s flavor profile.
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mild sharpness and a bit of color contrast that wakes up the palate.
- ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled: The creamy, tangy feta adds richness and a Mediterranean flair that ties the dish together.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Infuses herbaceous, fragrant notes that elevate the overall freshness.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a subtle kick in the dressing.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality oil ensures smoothness and carries the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the salad perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lends bright acidity to lift all the ingredients.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and harmonize the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, crumbled feta, and fresh basil in a large bowl. Gently toss everything together to evenly distribute all the fresh components without breaking up the delicate ingredients like feta and basil.
Step 2: Prepare the Zesty Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice. This dressing delivers a perfect mix of garlicky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, designed to lightly coat the salad and bring every ingredient to life. Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to find your perfect seasoning balance.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring that each bite will have that delicious, cohesive flavor you’re aiming for. This step is where the salad really starts to shine, as the ingredients meld and the dressing clings to every piece.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Letting it chill allows the flavors to mingle and intensify, blending wonderfully to turn a simple salad into something spectacular. If you’re in a hurry, serving it immediately also works beautifully thanks to the fresh ingredients.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjust
Just before serving, give the salad a quick taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. This final check ensures the dish is perfectly balanced and ready to impress.
How to Serve Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra crumbles of feta cheese and a handful of chopped basil right before serving. A drizzle of olive oil or a light dusting of cracked black pepper can add that extra layer of flavor and presentation polish that makes your salad stand out.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled bread or crispy pita chips for a satisfying crunch. It also complements lighter entrees like grilled fish or roasted vegetables, making it a flexible addition to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. You can also portion it into individual mason jars for picnics or pack it in colorful bowls to brighten up your table — this recipe is as visually appealing as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
This salad is not well-suited for freezing because the fresh vegetables and feta will change texture and become watery when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is intended to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to fully bloom.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta adds that classic tangy creaminess, goat cheese or mozzarella can be tasty alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor or have dietary preferences.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep. Make it a day ahead, and all the flavors will deepen, making your lunches even more enjoyable during busy weeks.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Definitely! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker to prepare and adds great flavor. Just be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces.
What if I want to add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in additional fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even steamed broccoli. The recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate your favorite veggies.
How long does the salad stay fresh?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, the salad remains fresh for up to 3 days. After that, the texture and flavors may begin to deteriorate.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe has truly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something that’s quick, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. It’s a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and simple yet satisfying tastes, perfect for any season or occasion. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite salads too!
Print
Chicken Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Chicken Pasta Salad combining tender cooked chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty garlic and balsamic dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 ½ cups cooked and chopped chicken breast
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss together the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil leaves until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, ensuring the dressing is well emulsified.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything thoroughly but gently, making sure all ingredients are well coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Alternatively, you can serve the salad at room temperature if desired.
- Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature, enjoying a fresh and satisfying meal.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Cooked pasta should be rinsed under cold water and cooled before mixing to prevent clumping.
- For added crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Use rotini or penne pasta as they hold the dressing well.
- Leftover salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
