For those days when you’re craving a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying, this Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender, herb-marinated chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, crunchy veggies, and a flavorful garlic herb dressing that ties everything together. Whether served as a light dinner, a quick lunch, or a dish for potlucks and gatherings, this pasta salad brings comfort and flavor in every bite.
What makes this pasta salad truly special is its vibrant dressing. Made with fresh herbs, minced garlic, and a touch of lemon, the dressing adds a zesty, aromatic quality to the salad, enhancing every ingredient without overpowering it. The herb-marinated chicken is juicy and flavorful, making each bite satisfying and rich. With colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and textures that make it a joy to eat.
This Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and easy to customize. You can make it ahead, which makes it a great choice for meal prep or for serving at picnics and barbecues. Plus, it’s simple to adapt to different diets—swap out the chicken for tofu or omit the cheese for a vegan-friendly version. With just a bit of prep, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie work well)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Marinade and Dressing:
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Marinade and Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives), lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour about 2 tablespoons of the dressing over them, coating both sides. Set aside to marinate for 10-15 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, Parmesan cheese (if using), and sliced chicken. Pour the remaining dressing over the salad, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This salad can also be chilled for 30 minutes before serving if you prefer it cold.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad is great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge, and add a bit of extra dressing or olive oil before serving, as the pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time.
Can I use other herbs in the dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or cilantro. Fresh herbs add a bright flavor that elevates the dish, so feel free to experiment.
What other veggies can I add?
This salad is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, red onions, olives, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture. Customize it with whatever veggies you enjoy most.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry, add a little more olive oil or dressing before serving.
Is this pasta salad good for picnics?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for picnics and potlucks. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, making it a great make-ahead dish for outdoor events.
This Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Salad is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to recipe for everything from easy lunches to special gatherings. The juicy, herb-infused chicken, paired with crisp veggies and a zesty garlic herb dressing, creates a meal that’s refreshing, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Serve it as a main course or a side, and enjoy a taste of summer any time of year!
