Looking for a quick and delicious meal that is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light dinner at home? This Chicken and Tomato Pasta Salad recipe is a delightful combination of savory grilled chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender pasta, all tossed together with a zesty homemade dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, and it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
**Chicken And Tomato Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**For the dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and black pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a clove of minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
3. While the chicken is grilling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and gently toss to distribute.
8. Serve the Chicken and Tomato Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for later. The flavors will meld together even more if you let it sit for a little while before serving.
This Chicken and Tomato Pasta Salad is a fantastic dish to bring to picnics, potlucks, or to enjoy as a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy dressing makes for a flavor-packed meal that is both satisfying and refreshing. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in other vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives to make it your own. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this delightful pasta salad!
