Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean chicken pasta salad is my summer entertaining secret weapon - light enough for hot days yet satisfying enough to serve as a main dish. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables creates an unforgettable medley of flavors that transports you straight to a seaside café.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu backyard gathering and needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Now it's requested at every summer potluck my family attends.

Ingredients

• Cooked diced chicken breast: Provides lean protein and makes this a complete meal
• Penne or rotini pasta: Creates the perfect vehicle for catching the dressing in every bite
• Cherry tomatoes: Add juicy bursts of sweetness; choose vine-ripened for best flavor
• Cucumber: Contributes refreshing crunch and hydration; look for firm ones without soft spots
• Red onion: Delivers sharp aromatic notes; finely chopped to distribute flavor without overwhelming
• Feta cheese: Brings tangy creaminess; authentic Greek varieties offer the richest flavor
• Kalamata olives: Contribute briny depth and authentic Mediterranean character
• Extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing; select a good quality one for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season and Cook Chicken:

Liberally season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before cooking in olive oil over medium heat. Cook for approximately 6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to rest for at least 5 minutes before dicing to retain juices and prevent dry chicken.

Cook Pasta to Perfection:

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil before adding pasta. Cook until just al dente following package directions, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Test a piece before draining to ensure it has slight resistance when bitten. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse to help the dressing adhere better.

Prepare Fresh Components:

While pasta cooks, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber into uniform quarter-inch pieces, and finely chop red onion. Having all components ready before assembly ensures even distribution of ingredients throughout the salad.

Combine and Dress:

In a large serving bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, prepared vegetables, crumbled feta, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, tossing gently to coat all ingredients without breaking down the delicate components.

Final Seasoning:

Taste the assembled salad and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Allow flavors to meld for at least 15 minutes before serving for optimal taste experience.

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My absolute favorite ingredient in this dish is the kalamata olives. Their distinctive flavor reminds me of family vacations in Greece where we would enjoy similar salads at waterfront tavernas. That briny pop transforms an ordinary pasta salad into something truly special.

Make-Ahead Magic

This pasta salad actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. For best results, prepare it up to 24 hours ahead but reserve a small portion of the dressing to refresh the salad just before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator and allow to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and let the flavors bloom.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully when time is short. For a vegetarian version, substitute chickpeas or white beans for chicken. Goat cheese can replace feta for a different creamy tanginess. During winter months when fresh tomatoes lack flavor, consider using sun-dried tomatoes for concentrated sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta salad slightly chilled rather than ice-cold to appreciate its full flavor profile. It pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread and additional olive oil for dipping. For a complete Mediterranean spread, accompany with hummus, tzatziki, and grilled vegetables. This salad also makes an excellent side dish for grilled fish or lamb.

Cultural Context

This pasta salad reflects the Mediterranean diet philosophy of fresh ingredients simply prepared. While not traditionally Mediterranean to combine pasta with these ingredients, this fusion represents the healthy eating principles of the region combined with Western pasta traditions. The emphasis on olive oil, fresh vegetables, and moderate portions of protein encapsulates what makes Mediterranean cuisine both delicious and nutritionally sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne or rotini pasta works well as they hold the dressing and mix easily with the other ingredients.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, crumbled goat cheese or shredded Parmesan can be used as an alternative to feta cheese.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and toss gently before serving.

→ What vegetables can I substitute or add?

You can add or substitute bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to suit your taste or seasonal availability of vegetables.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Pack it in airtight containers to keep it fresh for up to four days in the refrigerator.