Looking for a simple, vibrant dish to brighten up your day or to take as a thoughtful meal for someone? This Easy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly.
I remember the first time I packed this salad to bring to a friend recovering from surgery. The layers of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and tender pasta made it feel special yet comforting. It was the perfect balance of freshness and heartiness that brought a smile with every bite.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Quick to prepare with simple boiling and grilling steps
– Bright, colorful presentation that’s as inviting as it is tasty
– Tender pasta combined with crisp vegetables and juicy chicken chunks for a delightful texture
– Light Italian vinaigrette keeps it fresh and flavorful without heaviness
– Comes in a clear, portable airtight container with extra dressing on the side for convenience
A fuss-free recipe that you can make ahead and share, or enjoy as a nourishing lunch or dinner.
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Easy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A colorful, tender pasta salad with grilled chicken breast chunks, fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and a light Italian vinaigrette.
Ingredients
2 cups penne pasta
1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/3 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing
Instructions
Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
Grill or pan-sear the chicken breast until cooked through and juices run clear. Let cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and chopped basil.
Pour the Italian vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serve the salad in a clear, portable airtight container. Include a small separate container with extra dressing for added flavor at serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Q: How long does this salad keep fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
Q: Can I pack this salad ahead for lunch on the go?
A: Absolutely! The separate container for extra dressing keeps the salad crisp until you’re ready to eat.
Save this recipe, print it out, and get ready to enjoy a colorful, fresh pasta salad that’s as easy to make as it is to love.