Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, and you need something fresh, satisfying, and bursting with flavor that won’t keep you stuck in the kitchen for hours. This Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad is your answer – a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and garden-fresh vegetables in a zesty lemon herb dressing. What started as my go-to potluck contribution has become a family favorite that disappears faster than I can make it.
This isn’t just another chicken salad recipe – it’s a complete meal that works as a light dinner, impressive side dish, or make-ahead lunch option. With its bright flavors reminiscent of a Tuscan Chicken Salad and the convenience of pasta, this Mediterranean Chicken Salad delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will become your new obsession.
Recipe Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 people
- Cost: Affordable
- Best Season: Spring/Summer (but delicious year-round!)
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the Pasta Salad:
- 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or jar for dressing
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining pasta
- Tongs for handling chicken and pasta
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces. This seasoning blend gives our Italian Salad With Chicken its authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in your Chicken Garden Salad.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and parsley. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Having all vegetables prepped makes assembly quick and easy.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Herb Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This bright, zesty dressing is what transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add the fresh herbs, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pine nuts, then toss once more.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This Best Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe actually improves with time, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead entertaining.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don’t overcook the pasta – al dente pasta holds its shape better and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with dressing
- Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices and prevent dry meat
- Make dressing ahead – it keeps in the refrigerator for up to one week and flavors improve over time
- Add dressing gradually – you can always add more, but you can’t take it away
Delicious Variations:
Transform this Chicken Italian Salad to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
Tuscan Chicken Salad Variation: Add white beans, roasted red peppers, and substitute arugula for some of the herbs for a more authentic Tuscan flavor profile.
Mediterranean Salad With Chicken Boost: Include artichoke hearts, roasted eggplant, and a sprinkle of sumac for an extra Mediterranean flair.
Lighter Version: Use whole wheat pasta and reduce the olive oil in the dressing by half, adding extra lemon juice and herbs for flavor.
Protein Alternatives: Substitute grilled shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas for the chicken to create different protein-packed variations.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
This Chicken Mediterranean Salad stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store the dressing separately if making more than 2 days ahead to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid. The salad is best served at room temperature – remove from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving.
Perfect Pairings:
Serve this versatile salad alongside grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread. It’s substantial enough to be a main course for lunch or dinner, yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
This Mediterranean Chicken Salad Recipe provides a well-balanced meal with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.
Why This Recipe Works
This Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad succeeds because it balances flavors, textures, and temperatures perfectly. The bright acidity from the lemon cuts through the richness of the olive oil and cheese, while the herbs add freshness and the vegetables provide satisfying crunch. Unlike heavy mayonnaise-based salads, this Mediterranean-inspired version feels light yet satisfying.
The combination of Italian herbs and Greek ingredients (feta, olives) creates a unique fusion that appeals to diverse palates. The pasta makes it hearty enough for a main course, while the abundance of vegetables keeps it feeling healthy and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Chicken Italian Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad actually improves after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld together. You can make it up to 2 days ahead, storing it covered in the refrigerator. Add fresh herbs just before serving for the brightest flavor.
What’s the best pasta shape for Mediterranean Chicken Salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli work best because they hold the dressing well and are easy to eat. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or angel hair, which doesn’t work well in cold salads.
Can I use leftover chicken for this Tuscan Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken from a previous meal, or any cooked chicken works perfectly. You’ll need about 3 cups of diced cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned or add extra herbs to the salad.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy in my Chicken Garden Salad?
Cook the pasta just until al dente, then immediately drain and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking process. Also, don’t add the dressing until you’re ready to serve, or store it separately if making ahead.
Is this Best Healthy Chicken Salad Recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains wheat pasta, but you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting your favorite gluten-free pasta. Rice-based or chickpea pasta work particularly well and maintain good texture when cold.
Ready to make this incredible Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad? This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will in yours too. The combination of fresh Mediterranean flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly dressed pasta creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below sharing your results or any creative variations you’ve tried. Did you add different vegetables? Try a different herb combination? Your feedback helps other readers and gives me ideas for new recipes to share.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love fresh, healthy meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board, share it on Facebook, or text the link to someone who’s always asking for new dinner ideas.
Looking for more Mediterranean-inspired recipes? Check out my other favorite salad recipes including Greek Orzo Salad, Mediterranean Rice Bowl, and Grilled Vegetable Couscous Salad. Each one brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every fresh, flavorful bite of this amazing Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy pasta salad? Share your tips and variations in the comments below – I read every single one and love connecting with fellow food lovers!
