Description
This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad combines whole wheat rotini with tender diced chicken breast and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal prep option, this salad is easy to make, high in protein, and bursting with flavors that meld beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Dressing
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool completely.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, diced chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, celery, shredded carrots, and chopped parsley. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor.
- Add chopped almonds or sunflower seeds before serving for an added crunch and texture.
- This salad stores well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed within 3 days of preparation.
