Description
Delicious Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a light lemon dressing. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also makes a stunning centerpiece for summer gatherings or family dinners. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the chicken by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and slice.
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Dice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and chop the basil.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken, pasta, diced veggies, basil, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss gently to mix.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more lemon juice if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg