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Ultimate Warm Chicken Salad Pasta: Easy Dinner Recipes for Fitness & Health

This warm chicken salad pasta combines the comfort of pasta with the freshness of a nutritious salad, perfect for busy weeknights or fitness enthusiasts. It features whole wheat pasta, chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon-balsamic dressing for a balanced and flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli work best)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, and parsley. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Whisk together lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Sprinkle with feta cheese if using, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrients. For extra flavor, marinate chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. The dish can be served chilled for meal prep and keeps well for up to 3 days.