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Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Treat

A delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad that's perfect for meal prep and family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Or use thighs for juiciness.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning Can substitute with a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Cooked al dente.
  • 2 cups Tomatoes Use cherry or grape tomatoes for convenience.
  • 1/2 cup Roasted Red Peppers Can swap for fresh bell peppers.
  • 1/3 cup Olives Choose Kalamata or green olives.
  • 2 tablespoons Capers Can be omitted.
  • 1 cup Arugula Substitute with spinach if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Basil Use dried if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Vegetarian substitute can be nutritional yeast.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano Can use dried oregano.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3.5 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar White wine vinegar can be a substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard Can substitute with honey mustard for sweetness.
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium bowl
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken for about 8 minutes on one side. Flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 8 more minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  4. In the large bowl with the cooled pasta, add halved tomatoes, sliced roasted red peppers, halved olives, and capers. Add chopped chicken and drizzle with the vinaigrette. Gently toss until combined.
  5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the salad and add arugula, chopped basil, and fresh oregano. Toss lightly to combine.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor infusion.

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