High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad
This high protein chicken pasta salad is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Ideal for meal prep and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for cooking pasta
- 1 Skillet for cooking chicken
- 1 Large mixing bowl for assembling the salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups cooked diced chicken breast
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving and Storage
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours to let flavors meld. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute chicken with turkey or grilled shrimp. How to Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Storage & Freshness: Keep dressing separate until serving. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components ahead and assemble before serving.