High-Protein Chicken Pasta Salad
This chicken pasta salad is built to eat like a complete lunch rather than a small side dish. Chickpea pasta and cooked chicken provide substance, while cucumber, tomatoes and a bright dressing keep the bowl fresh instead of dense or overly creamy.
Cool the pasta before combining it with the vegetables so residual heat does not soften everything. It is especially useful for meal prep because the components hold up well in the refrigerator and can be portioned for several lunches.
Pasta Salad Works Better When the Chicken Cools First
- More than 40 g protein per serving
- Chicken Pasta Salad holds up well when you are planning lunches ahead.
- Creamy without a mayonnaise-heavy dressing
- Lots of crunchy vegetables
- Works for lunch or a light dinner
High-Protein Chicken Pasta Salad
High-protein chicken pasta salad combines chicken, chickpea pasta, crunchy vegetables and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing for meal prep lunches.
Ingredients
- 8 oz chickpea pasta 225 g
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast 280 g, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes 150 g, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber 120 g
- 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- 1/4 red onion finely diced
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta 50 g
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 180 g
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook chickpea pasta according to package directions until just tender.
- Drain, rinse briefly with cool water and let it dry well.
- Whisk Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta, chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion and feta.
- Fold in the dressing until evenly coated.
- Chill for at least 20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
Cooking times can vary by equipment and ingredient size. Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients, brands, and portion sizes.
Texture Is the Checkpoint With Chicken Pasta Salad
- Do not overcook chickpea pasta because it softens as it sits.
- Cool the pasta before adding the yogurt dressing.
- Dice ingredients evenly so every bite has a balanced mix.
- Taste again after chilling because cold food may need extra seasoning.
Flavor Changes That Still Respect the Method
- Use whole-wheat pasta if preferred.
- Add olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Swap feta for shredded mozzarella.
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
A Few Sides That Make Sense Here
- Fresh Fruit
- Simple Green Salad
- Whole-Grain Crackers
- Vegetable Soup
What to Cook After Chicken Pasta Salad
If you enjoyed this recipe, try one of these next:
- High-Protein Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
- High-Protein Chicken Burrito Bowl
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta
Planning Ahead With Chicken Pasta Salad
Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly and follow applicable cooked-meat food-safety guidance. Add fresh garnishes after reheating.
