Description
This vibrant and nutrient-dense salad pairs tender seared chicken breast with al dente rotini, crisp English cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and salty Kalamata olives. Tossed in a bright, zesty lemon-dijon vinaigrette, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is perfect for meal prep, staying fresh and flavorful in the refrigerator for days. It is a satisfying, balanced choice for busy lunch or dinner plans, packed with clean protein and fresh, crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 lb rotini or fusilli pasta
1 cup crumbled or cubed feta cheese
0.5 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 large English cucumber, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta completely and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Heat a skillet with one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, then set aside to cool completely.
In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until emulsified.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavor. You can add chopped bell peppers or red onion for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
