Looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner? Try our Chicken Tomato Pasta Salad! This vibrant recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful tomatoes, and al dente pasta for a delightful meal that will surely become a favorite in your household.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Once done, set aside to cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil. Toss gently to mix everything together.
4. Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and gently fold it into the pasta mixture.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together to ensure that the salad is evenly coated.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad just before serving to add a creamy and tangy finish.
This Chicken Tomato Pasta Salad is best served chilled, making it a fantastic dish for hot summer days or as a refreshing meal option any time of the year. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please your taste buds.
Prepare this dish ahead of time for a quick and easy meal prep option or serve it fresh for a delightful dining experience. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes, basil, and olives make this salad not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
So next time you’re craving a light and tasty meal that is easy to put together, remember this Chicken Tomato Pasta Salad recipe. Enjoy the fresh ingredients, delightful flavors, and the simplicity of this dish that will surely become a regular on your menu rotation.
