Zesty cold chicken pasta salad –Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and quick recipe for Italian Chicken Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty yet easy to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delightful meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a gathering or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s jump right in!
Italian Chicken Pasta Salad
This Italian Chicken Pasta Salad is not only quick to make but also wonderfully refreshing. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and al dente pasta makes it a satisfying meal. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need and how to prepare this delightful salad.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and chicken mixture, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients well.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This dish can also be served immediately or refrigerated for later.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving for a lovely touch.
This Italian Chicken Pasta Salad is not just quick and easy; it’s also an explosion of flavors that your taste buds will love. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a solid choice for meal prep or entertaining. Enjoy this delightful dish any day of the week!