Pasta Salad with Chicken and Feta Cheese

Packed with vibrant vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this Pasta Salad with Chicken and Feta Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Easy-to-make and delicious!

Ingredients for Pasta Salad

• 1 big bell pepper, diced
• 1 big carrot, grated
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 3,5 oz (100 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 roasted chicken fillets (enough for 4 portions)
• 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

For the dressing:

• 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Lemon zest (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Adjust the ingredient quantities according to your preferences and the number of servings you need. Enjoy your pasta salad!

Cooking Instructions

• Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, grated carrot, sliced green onions, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and shredded roasted chicken.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
• Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
• Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the salad mixture and toss again to combine.
• Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Enjoy your delicious roasted chicken pasta salad with feta cheese!

Tips and Variations

Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand. Try adding diced cucumbers, sliced olives, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Protein Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can swap it out for other proteins such as grilled shrimp, canned tuna, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Go Vegan: To make this dish vegan-friendly, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. You can also use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or marinated tofu.

Experiment with Dressing: Play around with the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, or try different herbs like basil or oregano for a twist.

Garnish: Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds such as pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds over the salad for added crunch and texture.

Serving Warm: While this salad is typically served chilled, you can also enjoy it warm. Simply toss the cooked pasta and roasted chicken with the rest of the ingredients while they’re still warm for a comforting twist on the classic salad.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the salad and dressing according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to enhance the flavors to your liking.

Feel free to mix and match these tips and variations to create your own unique version of this delicious Pasta Salad with Chicken and Feta Cheese!

FAQ

Q1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While penne works well in this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, farfalle, or rotini are great alternatives that hold the dressing nicely.

Q2. How long can I store the pasta salad? This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Q3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat-based pasta. Ensure all other ingredients, including the dressing, are gluten-free as well.

Q4. Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Absolutely! The dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using to re-emulsify any separated ingredients.

Q5. Can I omit the chicken for a vegetarian version? Of course! Feel free to omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian pasta salad. You can bulk it up with extra veggies or add protein alternatives like tofu or beans.

Q6. How can I make the salad more filling? To make the salad more filling, you can increase the amount of pasta or add more protein-rich ingredients like grilled shrimp, diced ham, or hard-boiled eggs.

Q7. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of roasted chicken? Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and works well in this recipe. Just shred the meat and add it to the salad as directed.

Q8. Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep? Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

If you have any other questions not addressed here, feel free to reach out, and I’ll be happy to assist you!

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