- Prepare the Pasta and Chicken:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
- Grill or boil the chicken breast until fully cooked. Allow it to cool before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta and chicken are cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. If using, slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (or sugar), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese (if using), and fresh basil. Gently toss to mix.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be garnished with extra fresh basil or parmesan cheese if desired.
Variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, arugula, or blanched broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Change the Protein: Swap chicken for other proteins like shrimp, tuna, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Customize the Dressing: Experiment with different dressings, such as a pesto sauce, Greek yogurt dressing, or a balsamic vinaigrette, depending on your taste preference.
Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Its flexibility allows you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have available or your dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy crafting your version of this delicious salad!