Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad
A Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad is a protein-packed, refreshing, and flavor-filled salad perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Juicy grilled chicken combines with pasta, fresh vegetables, feta, olives, and a light lemon-olive oil dressing to create a colorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Pasta & Chicken
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
1½ cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
1 tsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables & Mix-ins
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Dressing
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp red wine vinegar
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, toss with 1 tsp olive oil, and let cool slightly.
2️⃣ Grill Chicken
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Slice thinly.
3️⃣ Prepare Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta.
Add grilled chicken slices.
5️⃣ Toss & Serve
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm or chilled.
Frequently asked questions FAQ
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes — replace grilled chicken with chickpeas or roasted tofu.
Can it be served cold?
Absolutely — it makes a perfect pasta salad for picnics or meal prep.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes — thaw and drain well before adding
Tips
✔ Add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavor.
✔ Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for higher fiber and protein.
✔ Meal prep: store chicken and pasta separately to maintain texture for 2–3 days.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 5 g