Description
This High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner. Featuring tender cooked chicken breast combined with high-protein whole wheat or legume-based pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Easy to prepare and served chilled or at room temperature, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, protein-rich meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
- 8 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta (such as chickpea or lentil pasta)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing and Extras
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for added protein)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat or high-protein pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then cook them in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side, or use pre-cooked chicken. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley.
- Add dressing and cheese: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and mix lightly.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, use chickpea or lentil-based pasta instead of regular whole wheat pasta.
- The shredded cheese is optional and can be omitted for a lower-fat or lactose-free option.
- Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like spinach or avocado for variety.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use freshly cooked chicken for best texture and flavor, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
