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High-Protein Chicken Pasta Salad


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

A vibrant and nourishing pasta salad featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumbers, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sautéed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Allow to rest and slice into pieces.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Sauté bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms in olive oil until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, sautéed vegetables, and herbs. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently to combine.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to substitute turkey or chickpeas for chicken, and zucchini noodles or quinoa for pasta for a gluten-free option.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: pasta salad, chicken salad, high protein, family meal, healthy recipe