Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a protein-rich dish made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon olive oil dressing. It is hearty yet refreshing and perfect for lunches, meal prep, or gatherings.
12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
1 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives sliced
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic minced
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool completely.
Season chicken with oregano garlic powder salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken 5 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Rest and slice.
In a small bowl whisk olive oil lemon juice red wine vinegar Dijon mustard and minced garlic.
In a large bowl combine pasta chicken tomatoes cucumber red onion olives feta and parsley.
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.