If you’re craving a meal that bursts with sunshine in every bite, this Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad truly lives up to its reputation as An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. With vibrant veggies, juicy chicken, briny olives, tangy feta, and a simple homemade vinaigrette, this dish brings together all the flavors you love from Mediterranean cooking in a way that’s fresh, filling, and unbelievably easy. It’s the perfect go-to for lunches, picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners – and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity is key to making An Incredible Ultimate Recipe work its magic, and every item here builds both flavor and texture in the salad. Use the freshest ingredients you can get, and don’t be afraid to swap in your favorites if the mood strikes!
- Pasta: Rotini or penne hold onto the dressing and veggies for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Chicken Breast: Use cooked, chopped or shredded chicken for lean protein and a hearty base.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These mini tomatoes add juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- Cucumber: Crisp, refreshing, and adds crunch that’s perfect in a summer salad.
- Kalamata Olives: Their deep, briny flavor instantly transports you to the Mediterranean coast.
- Red Onion: Thin slices offer mild sharpness and extra crunch without overpowering.
- Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta ties all the flavors together.
- Fresh Parsley: Bright and herby, parsley keeps the salad tasting light and fresh.
- Fresh Basil (optional): Adds a beautiful fragrance and another layer of summery flavor.
- Olive Oil: The base of your dressing, bringing richness and that classic Mediterranean touch.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Tangy and vibrant, indispensable for a balanced dressing.
- Lemon Juice: For a fresh burst of citrusy brightness.
- Garlic: Just a touch, finely minced, gives an aromatic kick to the dressing.
- Dried Oregano: Earthy and classic, it’s the signature herb for Greek-inspired dishes.
- Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every component perfectly to taste.
How to Make An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil, then add your rotini or penne. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, so the pasta holds its shape in the salad. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and help prevent sticking – cooling it down also means your salad won’t wilt when you assemble everything.
Step 2: Prep the Fresh Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, chop the chicken into bite-size pieces or shred it if you prefer. Halve your cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion thinly, and chop those vibrant herbs. Prepping everything in advance makes assembly quick and easy – and the more colorful your chopping board looks, the better!
Step 3: Make the Mediterranean Dressing
In a small bowl or a lidded jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously (or shake your jar) until the dressing becomes smooth and emulsified, ready to drench your salad in bright, zesty flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Add the cooled pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta, parsley, and basil (if using) to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing all over, then toss gently but thoroughly so every bite gets coated with that incredible Mediterranean goodness.
Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Mingle
Pop the salad into the fridge for at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld, making An Incredible Ultimate Recipe even more delicious as the ingredients start to soak up the dressing and brighten each other. Trust me, patience pays off here!
How to Serve An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
When you’re ready to serve, finish your pasta salad with a little extra crumbled feta, a handful of chopped fresh herbs, or even a wedge of lemon on the side. These finishing touches aren’t just pretty – they amplify the flavors and add a touch of elegance that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad is a star on its own, but it shines even brighter with some classic Mediterranean sides. Think fresh pita bread, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Hummus or babaganoush would take things straight to paradise!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve An Incredible Ultimate Recipe in individual mason jars for a portable picnic, or pile it high in a big bowl lined with crisp lettuce leaves for an impressive buffet centerpiece. You can even pack it into pita pockets for Mediterranean-inspired wraps on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen things up. It’s perfect for meal prep and quick lunches!
Freezing
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch, especially without the fresh veggies and herbs. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add new tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs before serving to revive its freshness. The feta and chicken freeze well, but the texture of the veggies may change.
Reheating
Since An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature, there’s no need for reheating. If you crave something a little warmer, let it sit out for 15 minutes or so, and enjoy as the flavors shine at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad gluten free?
Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have all the wonderful flavors and textures of the original An Incredible Ultimate Recipe with zero gluten worries.
What type Main Course, Salad
Rotisserie, grilled, or baked chicken breast all work wonderfully. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken is particularly handy and adds a lovely smoky flavor.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Definitely! This salad loves variety – try adding chopped artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of baby spinach for colorful, nutrient-rich twists on An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.
How far in advance can I make this?
You can assemble the salad up to a day ahead, but for the freshest taste and crunch, add delicate herbs and any extra feta just before serving.
Does the dressing need to be made separately?
Yes, whisking or shaking the dressing separately ensures it’s perfectly mixed and coats all ingredients evenly – one of the secrets behind An Incredible Ultimate Recipe’s irresistible flavor!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that checks every box – easy, healthy, vibrant, and crowd-pleasing – you truly can’t go wrong with An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. Gather your ingredients, shake up that zesty vinaigrette, and dive fork-first into a Mediterranean moment you’ll want to recreate again and again. Give it a try, and get ready to savor a new favorite!
Print
An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: No-Cook (after boiling pasta)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a refreshing meal. Tender pasta, juicy chicken, tangy olives, and crisp vegetables are tossed in a zesty dressing for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, onion, feta, parsley, and basil.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Toss: Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Great for meal prep or summer gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
