Nothing beats the fresh, vibrant flavors of a perfectly crafted Greek Chicken Pasta Salad on a warm summer day. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing that will transport your taste buds straight to the Greek islands. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a healthy lunch for the week, or bringing a crowd-pleasing dish to your next potluck, this recipe delivers every single time.
What makes this Chicken Greek Pasta Salad truly special is its perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a lighter twist on traditional pasta salad dressing. Instead of heavy mayonnaise, we’re using Greek yogurt to create a creamy, protein-packed base that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. The result is a satisfying, nutritious meal that’s both filling and refreshing – perfect for those who want to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
Recipe Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 people
- Cost: Affordable to Medium
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
For the Pasta Salad:
- 1 pound penne or rotini pasta
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Greek Yogurt Dressing:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment Required
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl for dressing
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Tongs
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken marinade in a small bowl, whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other components. Heat your grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes for penne or rotini. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Greek Pasta Salad With Chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, dice the cucumber into small, uniform pieces and place them in your large mixing bowl. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl along with the thinly sliced red onion and halved Kalamata olives. The key to a great Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is having consistently sized vegetables that distribute evenly throughout the dish.
Step 4: Make the Greek Yogurt Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Add the minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, whisking until all ingredients are well incorporated. This Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta dressing is lighter than traditional mayonnaise-based dressings while still providing that rich, creamy texture we all love.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the prepared vegetables. Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then add the sliced chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Using clean hands or large spoons, gently toss all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break up the feta cheese and make the salad mushy.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Success:
- Don’t overcook the pasta – it should be al dente since it will continue to soften slightly as it sits in the dressing
- Salt your pasta water generously – this is your only chance to season the pasta itself
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to ensure it stays juicy and tender
- Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor and texture
- Fresh herbs make all the difference – don’t substitute with dried if possible
Delicious Variations:
Transform this recipe into an Italian Chicken Pasta Salad by swapping the feta for fresh mozzarella, adding sun-dried tomatoes, and using basil instead of dill. For a heartier version, add chickpeas or white beans to boost the protein content. You can also create a lighter version by using less pasta and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or zucchini.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
This pasta salad actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight in the refrigerator. Store covered for up to 3 days, though it’s best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. The salad can be made completely ahead – just add the fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their bright color and flavor. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh it.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or as a light dinner on busy weeknights. For entertaining, serve it alongside other Mediterranean dishes like hummus, pita bread, and grilled lamb or fish.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 180mg (from Greek yogurt and feta)
This Greek Chicken Pasta recipe provides an excellent source of lean protein from the chicken and Greek yogurt, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. The use of Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise significantly reduces the calories while adding beneficial probiotics.
Why This Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Works
The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tangy Greek yogurt dressing complements the salty feta and briny olives, while the fresh herbs add brightness and the chicken provides satisfying protein. Unlike heavy, mayonnaise-laden pasta salads, this Mediterranean version feels light and refreshing while still being incredibly satisfying.
The combination of pasta shapes like penne or rotini works particularly well because their ridges and curves hold onto the dressing and small ingredients beautifully. The marinated chicken adds depth of flavor that elevates this from a simple side dish to a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ready to create your own Mediterranean masterpiece? This Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation. The fresh flavors, healthy ingredients, and make-ahead convenience make it perfect for busy families and entertaining alike. Don’t forget to share your results and any creative variations you try – your feedback helps make these recipes even better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Greek Pasta Salad With Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator and add fresh herbs just before serving for the best presentation and flavor.
What’s the difference between Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad and regular Greek pasta salad?
Traditional tzatziki contains cucumber, garlic, and Greek yogurt – ingredients that are all featured in this recipe’s dressing. While this isn’t technically tzatziki sauce, the flavor profile is very similar, making it a lighter, healthier alternative to mayonnaise-based dressings.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt in this Chicken Pasta Salad With Greek Yogurt recipe?
While Greek yogurt provides the best texture and health benefits, you can substitute with regular plain yogurt (though it will be thinner) or even sour cream. For a dairy-free version, try using a thick cashew cream or tahini-based dressing.
How do I prevent my Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad from getting watery?
Make sure to drain your pasta well and rinse with cold water. Also, salt your diced cucumbers and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before adding to remove excess moisture. Use cherry tomatoes rather than large tomatoes, as they release less water.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Use about 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. While you’ll miss the marinated flavor from grilling your own, the convenience factor makes this an excellent shortcut for busy weeknights.
Have you tried this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and any creative variations in the comments below. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with friends who would love this healthy, delicious Mediterranean dish!
