Looking for a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this irresistible Chicken Pasta Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing! This Italian-inspired delight combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a zesty lemon herb dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, prepping for a picnic, or simply craving a light yet satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to discover the secrets behind this delicious dish? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of salted boiling water and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. If you haven't already, cook the chicken by boiling, grilling, or baking until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together until well mixed.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the lemon herb dressing. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Pour the lemon herb dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the chicken pasta salad for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the salad a gentle toss again before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken pasta salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with additional herbs or lemon slices if desired.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, make sure to salt your boiling water and keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Rinse it under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and maintain its firmness.
- Flavorful Chicken: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking. This will infuse the meat with deliciousness that complements the salad beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially for the vegetables. Crisp cucumbers and ripe cherry tomatoes can elevate the overall taste and texture of your salad.
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as bell peppers, olives, or even feta cheese, to give the salad a personal twist. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative!
- Presentation Matters: When serving, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon slices for an appealing presentation that will wow your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
