Can you put chicken in Greek pasta salad?

Absolutely. Adding chicken turns a basic pasta salad into a hearty, complete meal. In this recipe, the chicken is marinated in a lemon-garlic dressing that complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly. It adds both protein and richness to the dish.

What are the five mistakes to avoid in pasta salad?

Not seasoning the pasta water . Salted water is essential for flavor. Overcooking the pasta . Soft pasta will fall apart once mixed. Adding dressing to hot pasta . This causes the dressing to soak in too quickly and lose punch. Skipping the acid . Brightness from lemon juice or vinegar balances out the richness. Forgetting texture . Crunchy veggies and a crumbly cheese like feta give contrast.

What is the difference between a Greek and Mediterranean salad?

A Greek salad traditionally includes cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, and feta, usually without lettuce. Mediterranean salads may share some of these ingredients but often expand to include more variety like grains, legumes, or greens. The flavor profile is similar but broader in Mediterranean dishes.

What goes into a Greek pasta salad?

A classic Greek pasta salad includes cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, bell pepper, parsley, and feta, all tossed in a lemony dressing. Adding marinated chicken gives it extra flavor and makes it a satisfying main course.

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe, Fresh and Filling

Name: Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lemon (zest and juice); 3 cloves garlic, divided; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Freshly cracked black pepper; 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 8 oz pasta (any shape); 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved; 4 oz grape tomatoes, halved; 1/4 bunch parsley, chopped; 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

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This Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing, filling meal packed with marinated chicken, crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a bright lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Author: Emily Parker
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale

1 lemon (zest and juice)
3 cloves garlic, divided
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
8 oz pasta (any shape)
1/2 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
4 oz grape tomatoes, halved
1/4 bunch parsley, chopped
2 oz feta cheese, crumbled

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Instructions

1. Zest and juice the lemon. Mince 2 garlic cloves.
2. Whisk lemon juice, zest, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic to make the marinade.
3. Add half the marinade to a bag with the chicken and the third minced garlic clove. Marinate at least 30 minutes.
4. Cook pasta until tender. Drain and cool.
5. Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet until golden and cooked through. Let rest, then dice.
6. Prep vegetables: dice cucumber and bell pepper, halve tomatoes and olives, chop parsley.
7. Combine cooled pasta, veggies, chicken, feta, and remaining dressing. Toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Notes

Make extra dressing to freshen leftovers.

Use grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Add red onion or spinach for more flavor and texture.

Best eaten within 3 to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 471
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 643mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/greek-chicken-pasta-salad/