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Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but it is crucial to follow a few key steps to ensure the best texture for your Mediterranean Chill Chicken Pasta Salad. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt enhances the pasta's flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Cold Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Chill Chicken Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish combines whole wheat fusilli, grilled chicken, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, making it perfect for warm weather dining. Enhanced with Kalamata olives and feta cheese, and dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, every bite is a delightful journey. Perfect for picnics or as a light main course, this salad offers taste, nutrition, and a splash of sunshine on your plate. Dive into this Mediterranean culinary delight!

Ingredients
  

2 cups fusilli pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine until everything is evenly coated.

            Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

              Serve: Give the salad a quick toss before serving and enjoy your refreshing, chilled Mediterranean chicken pasta salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr | 6 servings