Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, pasta, fresh vegetables, olives, feta, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a bright and satisfying meal.
12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/2 cup sliced kalamata olives
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and cool.
Season chicken with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or grill until cooked through.
Let chicken rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
Whisk dressing ingredients together.
Combine pasta, chicken, vegetables, olives, and feta in a bowl.
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Reserve some dressing if preparing ahead.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Adjust lemon and salt to taste before serving.