Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad

Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz rotini pasta; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas

I love vibrant flavors, and this Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad truly delivers! It's refreshing, light, and packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for warm days or a quick lunch. The zesty lemon combined with the richness of garlic gives the chicken a mouthwatering allure, and when tossed with al dente pasta and fresh vegetables, it's a delightful experience. I can’t get enough of this dish, especially when topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-13T17:10:18.734Z

When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad, I was impressed by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The vibrant colors of the ingredients made it look enticing, and the fresh lemon flavor was uplifting. Using grilled chicken adds a comforting touch, while the garlic makes it aromatic and rich. I believe the key to perfecting it is to marinate the chicken beforehand, as it intensifies the flavors beautifully.

I recall enjoying this salad during a summer picnic, and it quickly became a family favorite! It’s versatile too; you can easily swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Just remember, mixing the pasta with the dressing while it’s still warm allows it to soak up all those zesty flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing and zesty flavor that awakens the palate
Perfectly grilled chicken adds protein and heartiness
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

The Perfect Grilling Technique

Grilling the chicken breasts is a crucial step for achieving that deep, smoky flavor while ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender. I recommend preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, which allows for a good sear without drying out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. This will give you perfectly cooked chicken every time.

To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only infuses the chicken with zest but also helps to keep it moist. Remember, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, so slice it just before serving to retain that juicy texture.

Pasta Primer

The choice of pasta can significantly impact the overall texture of your salad. Rotini is ideal because its spiral shape holds onto dressings and ingredients wonderfully. When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente, which means it should be firm when bitten; this provides the perfect contrast to the smoky chicken and crisp fresh vegetables. A good guideline is to cook the pasta for two minutes less than the package directions indicate if you plan to toss it in a salad.

After draining, rinse the pasta briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, which is essential for a salad. This step helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and allows the lemon-garlic dressing to adhere better when mixed in later.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad is not only quick to prepare but also works wonderfully for meal planning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to freshen it up before serving, a splash of olive oil and additional lemon juice can rehydrate the flavors without compromising the salad's integrity.

For a twist, consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or arugula, or even switching out the chicken for canned tuna or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz rotini pasta
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making this refreshing salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.

Chill and Serve

For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy cold or at room temperature!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or olives for additional flavor and texture. You can also replace grilled chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.

Flavor Pairings

To elevate the flavors in this pasta salad, consider pairing it with lightly toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Their nutty crunch complements the vibrant ingredients beautifully and adds another layer of texture. Additionally, a sprinkle of feta cheese or grated Parmesan works well, providing a savory depth that balances the zesty dressing nicely.

Fresh herbs can also make a big difference; while parsley is a wonderful choice, consider using basil or dill for an interesting take. Adding fresh herbs just before serving helps to maintain their bright color and fresh flavor, giving the salad a beautiful presentation.

Customizing Your Salad

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta Salad is very adaptable! If you're looking for a low-carb version, you can swap out the rotini pasta for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. These alternatives will offer the same delightful crunch and absorb the flavors of your dressing similarly but with fewer carbs.

Fruits like diced avocado or segments of orange can also be added for sweetness, balancing out the acidity of the lemon. Experiment with varying the ratios of vegetables to chicken to suit your taste preference — it's a flexible dish that can be modified to fit any dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and verify that other ingredients adhere to gluten-free standards.

→ How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I add cheese to this salad?

Absolutely! Feta cheese pairs wonderfully with the lemon and garlic flavors.