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–+ servings
Delicious balsamic chicken pasta salad with fresh ingredients and vibrant colors

Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad

A delightful and easy-to-prepare pasta salad made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken

  • 1 lb pasta (preferably Barilla rotini) Choose your preferred type of pasta.
  • 2 cups chicken (cut into 1/2-inch cubes) Cooked or leftover chicken can be used.

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cucumber (seeded and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces) Use English cucumber for less seeds.
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes Halved or left whole based on preference.
  • 1/2 cup red onion (finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces) Soak in cold water to lessen sharpness, if desired.
  • 1/2 cup red pepper (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chiffonade) Chop into thin strips.

Dressing

  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt (preferably Fage 2%) Swap with sour cream if needed.
  • 5 tbsp balsamic vinegar Adjust to taste.
  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.25 tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Toppings

  • 1/3 cup parmesan (grated) Freshly grated is recommended.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by preparing your mise en place: chop all the vegetables and cube the chicken.
  • Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.

Combining Ingredients

  • Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water.
  • Add the pasta to the bowl with the dressing.
  • Add all the prepared vegetables and cubed chicken into the bowl with the pasta and dressing.
  • Toss everything gently to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
  • Sprinkle the salad with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil chiffonade.
  • Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors develop.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar based on your taste preference. Let the salad chill before serving to enhance the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3g
Keyword Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad, chicken salad, Easy Recipe, meal prep, Pasta Salad
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