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Chicken Pasta Salad

Chicken Pasta Salad

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This Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a satisfying meal prep option, this salad is both nutritious and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb rotini pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup cucumber, quartered and sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup kalamata olives, halved
  • ¾ cup small mozzarella balls, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1¼ cups Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup apple vinegar
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tbsp finely minced red bell pepper
  • 1½ tsp dried minced onion
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ¾ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook rotini pasta in boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning and olive oil. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through; slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella balls, and parsley.
  4. Whisk together olive oil, apple vinegar, Parmesan cheese, herbs, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and black pepper for the dressing.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

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