Print

Healthy High-Protein Summer Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

healthy high-protein summer pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A light yet filling gluten-free pasta salad featuring juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, perfect for summer picnics and easy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz (225 g) gluten-free pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or ziplock bag, pour marinade over, and let sit for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes) until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool down for the salad. Set aside.
  3. Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  4. While chicken cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Toss them into a large mixing bowl with the fresh parsley and feta (if using).
  5. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. Add the cooled pasta and sliced chicken to the bowl with veggies. Pour dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Use a splash of olive oil when tossing pasta to keep it loose. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Dressing is best mixed just before assembling to keep flavors fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer pasta salad, high protein, grilled chicken, gluten-free, healthy salad, easy summer meals, picnic food

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/healthy-high-protein-summer-pasta-salad-with-grilled-chicken-recipe-for-easy-gluten-free-meals/