Go Back
Welcome to the flavorful world of Mediterranean cuisine with our vibrant recipe for Mediterranean Bliss: Grilled Chicken Greek Pasta Salad. This dish exemplifies the fresh, wholesome ingredients that characterize Mediterranean cooking, making it as nutritious as it is delicious. Picture a colorful medley of grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and whole wheat pasta, all brought together by a zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, prepping meals for the week, or simply enjoying a hearty family dinner.

Grilled Chicken Greek Pasta Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with our Grilled Chicken Greek Pasta Salad! This colorful dish combines whole wheat penne, grilled chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables topped with a zesty dressing. Packed with nutrients and bursting with taste, it's perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or family dinners. Easy to make and adaptable for various diets, this salad is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal filled with Mediterranean bliss.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

8 oz whole wheat penne pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil (for marinating the chicken)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced into small pieces

1 bell pepper (either red or yellow), diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon honey (omit if preferred)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts to coat evenly.

      Grill the Chicken: Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature registers 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

        Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors as desired and set aside.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked penne pasta, grilled chicken pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together to ensure even coverage.

            Serve: Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or divide it into individual bowls. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. The salad is delicious served immediately but can also be refrigerated for up to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

              Enjoy Your Salad: Relish this vibrant and satisfying salad as a delightful main dish or a refreshing side!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6