Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, wholesome pasta, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful dressing. Here’s a description of this delightful recipe:
**Protein-Packed Chicken:** Grilled or roasted chicken breast is the star protein in this salad, adding savory flavor and satisfying texture. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, low in fat, and rich in essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium, making it a healthy choice for any meal.Spinach leaves contribute earthy flavor and an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.
**Flavorful Dressing:** The salad is dressed in a flavorful vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs. This tangy dressing adds brightness and depth of flavor to the salad, tying all the ingredients together and making every bite delicious.
**Versatile and Customizable:** Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to swap out vegetables, add additional protein sources like chickpeas or grilled shrimp, or adjust the seasoning in the dressing to create your own unique variation of the salad.
**Satisfying and Delicious:** With its combination of protein, fiber, and flavor, Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a satisfying and delicious meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energized.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados pitted and diced
- 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped (we used rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 pound cooked rotini pasta or similar
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
Instructions:
1: In a large bowl, add salad ingredients, shredded chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, onion, and basil.
2: In a jar, mix the ingredients for the dressing: Italian seasoning, vinegar, olive oil, pepper, and salt.
3: Sprinkle your salad with the dressing.
Mix gently until all ingredients are combined.
Serve the chicken pasta salad immediately or refrigerate for later. Enjoy!