Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 lb chicken breast, grilled and diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations

I love making Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables, making it not only satisfying but also visually appealing. When I whip up this salad, I often add a drizzle of homemade vinaigrette to heighten the freshness. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a potluck, and I can assure you that the flavors only get better as it sits. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe never disappoints.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:45:36.579Z

When I first tried Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad, I couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. I experimented with different dressings and landed on a light lemon-olive oil vinaigrette that adds brightness without overpowering the dish. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the combination of herbs and veggies.

This salad is not just a side dish; it can easily be the star of your meal. I often prepare it ahead of time, knowing it will keep well in the fridge and that the flavors meld beautifully over time. If I want to elevate it further, I add olives and feta cheese, turning it into a filling meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Perfectly balanced with protein and carbs
Versatile for meal prep or entertaining

Perfecting the Pasta

To achieve the ideal texture for your pasta in this salad, make sure to cook it al dente. This means cooking the pasta until it is firm to the bite, generally 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Once cooked, it's crucial to drain it promptly and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, ensuring it retains a pleasant chewiness when mixed with the other ingredients.

Additionally, consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta options if you have dietary preferences. These still work beautifully in this recipe while adding their own unique flavors and textures. If you're looking to add extra nutrition, consider incorporating lentil or chickpea pasta, which enhances the protein content of your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad.

Ingredient Choices Matter

Each ingredient in this salad plays a vital role in delivering the classic Mediterranean taste. The Kalamata olives add a distinct brininess that complements the creamy feta cheese, while the fresh parsley brings a touch of brightness. Feel free to adjust these according to your taste—using green olives instead can yield a milder flavor if that’s more to your liking. Remember, fresh vegetables like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes not only provide flavor but also important nutrients, so don’t skimp on their quality.

When selecting your chicken, opt for high-quality, organic chicken breast for the best flavor and texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can serve as a convenient substitute—just be sure to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before mixing it into the salad. The smoky flavor from pre-cooked chicken can elevate the entire dish, making it every bit as delicious as grilled chicken.

Ingredients

Gather these vibrant ingredients to make your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad:

Ingredients

2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 lb chicken breast, grilled and diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, grill the chicken breast until fully cooked and then dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the pasta mixture.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for up to two hours before serving.

Your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before grilling. You can also substitute any vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it a day in advance. To keep the pasta firm and maintain the freshness of the vegetables, store the salad and dressing separately. Combine them only when you’re ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. If refrigeration is on your mind, the salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to three days. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving.

If you're planning to serve it later, consider adding the feta cheese just before serving to keep it from getting too soft and losing its crumbly texture. Additionally, if leftovers linger, you can repurpose the salad by adding more greens for a quick and nutritious lunch or by tossing in a handful of chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can replace the chicken with grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Furthermore, adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts can enhance the Mediterranean flair of the dish. If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick—it brings a whole new dimension to the flavors!

When it comes to serving, this salad is incredibly versatile. It stands beautifully on its own as a light lunch or dinner, but you can also serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with additional feta and parsley just before serving. This adds both color and a burst of freshness that elevates the entire presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better when made a few hours ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together.

→ What can I substitute if I don’t have feta cheese?

Feel free to use goat cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor to the salad.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.