Chicken Pasta Salad

This Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh and easy recipe featuring tender chicken, orzo pasta, and a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and corn. Tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing with lemon juice and dill, it’s a nutritious and flavorful dish perfect for meal prep, picnics, or family gatherings. With protein-packed chicken and healthy ingredients, this salad makes a great option for lunch, dinner, or a light side dish. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite vegetables, and can be made ahead for convenience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pasta Salad:

• 1 large chicken breast, trimmed
• 8 oz (3 cups) cooked orzo pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained (or kernels from 2 cooked corn cobs)
• 4 boiled eggs, diced
• 1 red or orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, julienned or grated
• ¾ cup green onion, finely chopped (red onion can be used as a substitute)
• 4-5 small garden cucumbers or 1 English cucumber, diced

For the Salad Dressing:

• 3 Tbsp plain Greek yogurt
• 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 3 Tbsp sunflower oil (or olive oil)
• Juice from 1 large lemon (about 4 Tbsp)
• 1 Tbsp dill or parsley, finely chopped
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sunflower oil, lemon juice, dill (or parsley), salt, and pepper. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cut the chicken breast in half lengthwise. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   • Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pan and sauté for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to cool to room temperature before dicing.
3. Cook the Orzo:
   • Cook the orzo pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water and drain well.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, cooked orzo, drained corn, diced boiled eggs, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, grated carrot, and chopped green onion.
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Add more salt and pepper to taste if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile and Flavorful: This Chicken Pasta Salad is packed with a variety of textures and flavors, from tender chicken and creamy dressing to crisp vegetables and tangy lemon.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s an easy and nutritious option that can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for lunches or picnics.
• Fresh and Healthy Ingredients: With a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients, this salad makes for a refreshing and light meal.

Tips

• Cool the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before dicing to prevent it from becoming dry or tough.
• Chill the Salad: After mixing the salad, refrigerate it for about an hour to let the flavors meld and the dressing set.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice or dill based on your taste preferences for a more tangy or herb-forward flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use Different Pasta: Swap out orzo for another small pasta, like farfalle or penne, if you prefer.
• Add More Veggies: Try adding other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado for extra color and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This Chicken Pasta Salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping or picnics.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different protein option.

How can I make the salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, you can add additional grains like quinoa or even some chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Fresh Bread: This salad pairs well with crusty bread or a light baguette for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Picnics and BBQs: It’s an excellent dish to bring to outdoor events like barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
• Pair with a Light Drink: Serve it with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing meal.