High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad
A delicious and nutritious high protein chicken pasta salad packed with grilled chicken, whole wheat pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a healthy lunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt (for dressing)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for dressing)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
Drain the cooked pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.