Chicken Pasta Salad

This easy and healthy chicken pasta salad recipe is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light, flavorful lunch. Packed with protein-rich chicken, vibrant veggies like grape tomatoes, green bell pepper, and sweet corn, and coated in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, this pasta salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Ready in under an hour, it’s a simple yet delicious dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Perfect for those looking for a fresh, quick meal with a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fusilli or rotini pasta
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed

Instructions

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing in a large serving bowl by whisking together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, diced red onion, chopped dill, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the dressing and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
4. Toss in the diced chicken, halved grape tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and thawed corn. Stir to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light & Creamy: The Greek yogurt dressing offers a creamy texture without the heaviness of mayo.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, including chilling time, this pasta salad is a perfect option for meal prep or a fast family meal.
• Packed with Flavor: A mix of fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a tangy dressing creates a vibrant, flavorful dish.
• Customizable: You can add or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in some of the dressing before cooking.
• If you prefer a lighter dressing, reduce the olive oil or add a bit of lemon juice.
• Be sure to rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process, ensuring it doesn’t become soggy.
• To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like cucumbers or olives.
• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
• Swap the Pasta: Use any short pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or bowtie pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew yogurt, and use olive oil-based mayonnaise instead of yogurt for the dressing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or shells in place of fusilli or rotini.

How long does chicken pasta salad last?
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually best to let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. You can prepare it a day in advance for a quicker meal.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh corn, simply cook it first and let it cool before adding to the salad.

Serving

• This chicken pasta salad makes a great standalone dish or can be served as a side alongside grilled meats or sandwiches.
• Serve with extra fresh herbs on top for added color and flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or Parmesan for extra richness.

Suggestions

• For extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of mixed greens to complete your meal.
• Try adding other veggies like sweet bell peppers or shredded carrots for more variety.