Chicken & Pasta Salad

Servings: 2 Difficulty: Intermediate
A vibrant Italian-inspired pasta salad with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Chicken & Pasta Salad recipe image

This vibrant Chicken & Pasta Salad combines tender rotini with juicy, soy-seasoned chicken and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables. The tricolor rotini adds a festive touch, while the crisp broccoli, red, and green peppers provide a satisfying crunch. Tossed in a light Italian dressing infused with a hint of soy sauce, the flavors are bright, savory, and refreshing. It’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a light lunch that holds up well in the fridge. Whether served chilled or semi-warm, this salad offers a balanced, protein-packed meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

Chicken & Pasta Salad

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 2 Calories: 165.0

Description

This vibrant Chicken & Pasta Salad combines tender rotini with juicy, soy-seasoned chicken and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables. The tricolor rotini adds a festive touch, while the crisp broccoli, red, and green peppers provide a satisfying crunch. Tossed in a light Italian dressing infused with a hint of soy sauce, the flavors are bright, savory, and refreshing. It&# 226;ÂÂs a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a light lunch that holds up well in the fridge. Whether served chilled or semi-warm, this salad offers a balanced, protein-packed meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tricolor rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then drain well.
  2. Meanwhile, blanch fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice water bath to cool, then drain thoroughly.
  3. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with the Italian dressing. Set aside.
  4. Season chicken breasts with the remaining soy sauce. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink. Avoid overcooking.
  6. Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into 1-inch strips, then cut into 1/4-inch pieces.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped onion, chopped red and green peppers, blanched broccoli, and diced chicken.
  8. Pour the soy-infused Italian dressing over the salad mixture.
  9. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
  10. Serve immediately, either chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2


Amount Per Serving
Calories 165.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3.6g6%
Saturated Fat 1.0g5%
Cholesterol 85.0mg29%
Sodium 74.0mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 31.0g62%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chicken, pasta, salad, italian, rotini, healthy, lunch, dinner, easy, vegetables, broccoli, peppers, dressing, meal prep, protein
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