Are you craving a refreshing, mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect blend of protein, vegetables, and zesty flavors? Look no further than this irresistible Chicken Vegetable Pasta Salad! In just 35 minutes, you'll transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether you're planning a picnic, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, this Italian-inspired recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 2 cups of cooked chicken (diced), 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, 1 cup of diced cucumber, 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup of Italian dressing, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Rinse and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, dice the cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped bell peppers, diced cucumber, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve in bowls or on plates. Enjoy your Chicken Vegetable Pasta Salad!
Tips
- Choose the right pasta: Use short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini or penne that hold dressing well and are easy to eat.
- Temperature matters: Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent overcooking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture.
- Chill for maximum flavor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to marinate and flavors to intensify.
- Customize your protein: Use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even swap with canned tuna for variety.
- Fresh is best: Use crisp, fresh vegetables for the most vibrant taste and texture.
- Dressing hack: For extra flavor, let the salad sit with dressing for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance overall taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 546kcal
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 54g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
