Grilled Chicken and Veggie Pasta Salad

Name: Grilled Chicken and Veggie Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 oz Grilled chicken breast (about 170 grams, cooked and sliced); 1 cup Whole wheat pasta (cooked, about 140 grams); 1 cup Cherry tomatoes (halved); 0.5 medium Cucumber (diced, about 100 grams); 1 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin); 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

650 kcal · 50 g protein · 15 minutes · 1 servings

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A vibrant and healthy pasta salad combining tender grilled chicken breast with fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and whole wheat pasta, all tossed in a light lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or a light dinner.

650 kcal 50 g protein 15 minutes

Ingredients

Grilled chicken breast 6 oz
Whole wheat pasta 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Cucumber 0.5 medium
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp

Method

Cook the Whole Wheat Pasta. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente (tender but still firm). Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside.
Tip: Rinsing the pasta with cold water helps prevent it from sticking and cools it for the salad.
Prepare the Grilled Chicken. If your chicken breast is not yet cooked, season it lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Resting keeps the meat juicy.
Prepare the Vegetables. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Peel and dice half a medium cucumber into small pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Tip: Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Make the Dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice until combined. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
Tip: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing tang.
Combine All Ingredients. Add the cooled pasta and sliced grilled chicken to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Tip: Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta or crushing the tomatoes.
Serve and Enjoy. Transfer the pasta salad to a serving plate or bowl. You can enjoy it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler salad.
Tip: Chilling helps flavors meld but is optional.

Pro tips

Use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.