Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Greek Chicken Pasta Salad that combines the best elements of Greek cuisine in one satisfying dish. The combination of tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every forkful.

After experimenting with countless pasta salad variations, I discovered that allowing the warm pasta to absorb some of the dressing before adding other ingredients creates the most flavorful result. It's a simple step that makes a remarkable difference.

Essential Components

• Pasta Selection: Farfalle's nooks and crannies capture the perfect amount of dressing
• Chicken Preparation: Proper grilling creates flavorful, juicy chicken that enhances the entire dish
• Vegetable Cut: Uniform, bite-sized pieces ensure balanced flavor in every forkful
• Dressing Balance: The perfect ratio of oil to vinegar creates a dressing that clings to ingredients
• Cheese Quality: Authentic feta provides the distinctive briny flavor essential to Greek cuisine

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Creating Your Masterpiece

Perfect The Pasta:

Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb moisture from the dressing. Rinse briefly with cool water to stop cooking.

Master The Chicken:

Season chicken simply with olive oil, salt and pepper to complement rather than compete with other flavors. Grill until just cooked through.

Build The Dressing:

Whisk red wine vinegar with lemon juice and Dijon before slowly streaming in oil for proper emulsion.

Layer The Flavors:

Toss warm pasta with a portion of the dressing before adding vegetables and protein. This allows pasta to absorb maximum flavor.

Time The Assembly:

Add feta cheese last to prevent it from breaking down and becoming too crumbly.

This pasta salad has become my signature contribution to summer gatherings, where its bright colors and flavors always attract attention. The balance of hearty and refreshing elements makes it perfect for outdoor dining.

Perfect Pairings

Complete your Mediterranean meal with complementary dishes. Serve with warm pita bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with za'atar. For a light dinner, pair with a simple Greek salad. Add hummus and tzatziki on the side for dipping. Complete the experience with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko.

Creative Variations

Adapt this versatile salad to suit your preferences. Create a seafood version by substituting grilled shrimp for chicken. Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with chickpeas or grilled halloumi. Add artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flair. For a heartier version, incorporate orzo instead of farfalle.

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Storage Success

This salad keeps beautifully for several days. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If preparing ahead for a gathering, reserve a small portion of dressing to refresh the salad just before serving. For maximum freshness, add cucumber just before serving.

Through countless iterations of pasta salads, I've found that attention to detail transforms a simple dish into something memorable. This recipe proves that a thoughtful combination of quality ingredients, proper preparation, and balanced flavors creates a dish that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep and actually tastes better after the flavors meld. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve if preparing more than a day ahead.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don't like feta, try goat cheese or fresh mozzarella balls. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.

→ Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Simply substitute the farfalle with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Rice, corn, or chickpea pasta all work well.

→ What can I use instead of chicken?

For a vegetarian version, substitute with chickpeas or grilled halloumi cheese. Shrimp or salmon also work well for a seafood alternative.

→ How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, it will keep for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so you might want to add a splash more before serving leftovers.