Ingredients
4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Provides lean protein for a satisfying meal and helps keep you full longer, supporting muscle health.
1½ tablespoons Olive Oil Used for cooking the chicken, it adds healthy fats and prevents sticking while enhancing the overall flavor.
4 Garlic Cloves, minced Infuses a robust, aromatic taste that boosts the dish’s savoriness and offers potential immune-boosting benefits.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste) Seasons the chicken for balanced flavor, making the salad more enjoyable without excess sodium.
12 ounce Dry Penne or Fusilli Pasta (whole grain or gluten-free) Forms the base of the salad, providing complex carbs and fiber for sustained energy.
2 3 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Thyme Adds earthy notes and antioxidants, elevating the taste while promoting digestive health.
2 tablespoons Fresh Chopped Oregano (or dried) Brings a peppery flavor that pairs well with the chicken, and it’s rich in vitamins for added nutrition.
2 Cups Cherry Tomatoes, halved Offers juicy sweetness and a burst of vitamins C and K, making the salad colorful and refreshing.
1 Yellow Bell Pepper (seeds removed, thinly sliced) Provides crunch and a dose of vitamin A, adding both texture and visual appeal.
½ Cup Green Olives (sliced in half) Contributes a briny flavor and healthy fats, which support heart health in this Easy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe.
1 medium Red Onion (thickly sliced) Adds a sharp, pungent taste that balances the milder ingredients and aids in digestion.
⅓ Cup Ground Parmesan Cheese Brings a nutty, salty finish that enhances the salad’s creaminess while offering calcium for bone health.
3 Cups Packed Arugula (roughly chopped) Adds a peppery greens element, packed with iron and vitamins to make this Best Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe even healthier.
Instructions
1-First Step: Make the Dressing: Begin by whisking together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl to let the flavors meld. Combine 4 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar, 1 teaspoon Honey, 1 pressed or minced Garlic Clove, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This simple mixture creates a zesty base that ties the whole Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad together, adding brightness and a touch of sweetness.
2-Second Step: Cook the Pasta: Next, boil a pot of salted water and cook 12 ounces of Dry Penne or Fusilli Pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it firm. This step is crucial for a Simple Pasta Salad that doesn’t turn mushy, ensuring your Easy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe stays fresh and appetizing.
3-Third Step: Prepare the Chicken: Now, slice 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts into 0.5-inch strips and toss them with 1 tablespoon Olive Oil, 2 3 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Thyme, 2 tablespoons Fresh Chopped Oregano, 4 minced Garlic Cloves, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until it’s golden and fully cooked through. This method keeps the chicken tender and flavorful, making it the star of your Healthy Pasta Salad for Summer.
4-Fourth Step: Combine All Ingredients: Transfer the cooked pasta to a large bowl and add the prepared chicken, along with 2 Cups halved Cherry Tomatoes, 1 thinly sliced Yellow Bell Pepper, ½ Cup sliced Green Olives, 1 thickly sliced medium Red Onion, ⅓ Cup Ground Parmesan Cheese, and 3 Cups roughly chopped Arugula. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently to coat evenly. At this point, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adapting for dietary preferences like using gluten-free pasta.
5-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy: Once mixed, let the salad sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, then serve it warm or chilled based on your preference. This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is ready in about 30 minutes total, with 15 minutes prep and 15 minutes cooking, making it perfect for quick meals. For more recipe ideas, explore our gluten-free recipes that complement this dish. It’s a versatile option that stores well and can be customized for different tastes.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍝 Substitute gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
🥬 Replace arugula with spinach or add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for flavor variations.
🐔 Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Sautéing and boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free option
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving