Nothing beats a delicious and satisfying salad on a warm summer day. This Chicken Bowtie Salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and nourished. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that is both hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a light and healthy lunch option, this recipe has you covered.
Chicken Bowtie Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Remove from the heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
This Chicken Bowtie Salad is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking – feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. You can also make this salad in advance for meal prep or a picnic outdoors. Enjoy this delightful dish as a complete meal or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. Bon appétit!
