Grilled Chicken & Feta Pasta Salad

Gluten-Free Option | Family Style | Summer
I love making this grilled chicken and feta pasta when the weather warms up. It is the perfect summer chicken pasta salad for family gatherings or my weekly meal prep menus. If you are looking for a vibrant Mediterranean chicken pasta salad, this dish delivers. It beautifully combines the fresh, produce-forward elements of a classic grilled chicken salad with a satisfying, zesty lemon chicken pasta finish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz pasta (gluten-free or regular)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes for your grilled chicken salad base.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly. This will be the hearty foundation for your summer chicken pasta salad.

Step 4: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh basil to build the ultimate grilled chicken and feta pasta. Pour in the vinaigrette and toss to coat evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld into a beautiful Mediterranean chicken pasta salad. Garnish with extra basil and feta before serving this vibrant, zesty lemon chicken pasta.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 4 – Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (approx. 250g)