Looking for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner? This Chicken Garden Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, two cheeses, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta for a simple meal the whole family will enjoy.
This recipe is ideal for busy evenings. Use a rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred about a pound of chicken breast if you prefer.
Ingredient List:
- Cooked pasta – rotini works well
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded or diced
- Grape tomatoes, sliced
- Dark greens – spinach, romaine, spring mix, or arugula
- Rotisserie chicken, cooked and shredded (or about 1 lb cooked chicken breast)
- Balsamic dressing (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make a Garden Pasta Salad with Chicken:
This salad comes together quickly and requires minimal prep.
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and let it cool slightly.
2. Cut or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pasta and chicken.
4. Slice the grape tomatoes and add them to the bowl.
5. Chop or tear your chosen dark greens and toss them in with the other ingredients.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the mixture and toss gently to distribute.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and serve. If you prefer, ranch dressing is a tasty alternative—both dressings work well depending on your mood.
This salad can be served warm or chilled. Make it ahead and refrigerate leftovers for later shifts or lunches; it holds up well and is a reliable, easy meal for busy households.
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Chicken Garden Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz. whole wheat pasta noodles rotini recommended
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded or diced
- 2 cups grape tomatoes sliced
- 1 cup dark greens spinach, romaine, or your choice
- 1 rotisserie chicken cooked and shredded
- Balsamic dressing
Instructions
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Cook the noodles according to package directions; drain.
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Cut or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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In a large bowl, combine noodles, chicken, tomatoes, and greens. Toss to mix.
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Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the salad and toss gently.
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Serve with balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.
Nutrition information is approximate and provided as a guide.
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