If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, delicious meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch, this High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken paired with hearty whole wheat pasta, fresh veggies, and a tangy, creamy dressing that brings every flavor together effortlessly. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing picnic dish, this salad checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and health.

High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component contributes an essential layer—whether it’s the protein from chicken and Greek yogurt, the fiber and chewiness from whole grain pasta, or the fresh bright notes from assorted vegetables.

Chicken breasts: Cooked and chopped for lean, versatile protein that forms the salad’s hearty base.
Whole wheat or high-protein pasta: Chickpea or lentil pasta works great, adding extra protein and a satisfying bite.
Cucumber: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that lightens the dish.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved for bursts of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
Red bell pepper: Diced to offer a mild sweetness and a splash of red.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness that wakes up the palate.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for an herbaceous freshness that brightens the overall flavor.
Shredded cheese (optional): Adds extra protein and creamy richness if you want to amp up indulgence.
Greek yogurt: Provides a luscious creaminess while boosting protein and keeping the dish light.
Olive oil: For smoothness and a hint of fruitiness in the dressing.
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: Brings acidity that perfectly balances the creamy elements.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick and depth of flavor.
Garlic powder: For a gentle savory warmth without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s taste.

How to Make High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Prepare Chicken

Start by cooking two boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they’re perfectly juicy and cooked through. You can grill, bake, or sauté them according to your preference. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces that will blend beautifully with the pasta and veggies.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil 8 ounces of whole wheat or high-protein pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process and help the pasta stay firm and ready to soak up the flavorful dressing.

Step 3: Chop the Fresh Veggies

Dice cucumber and red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley finely to infuse the salad with its bright, herbaceous notes.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is the heart of the High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe—it’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cooked pasta, and fresh veggies. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated and flavorful. If you’re using shredded cheese, sprinkle it in now and stir to blend.

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness and color, garnish your salad with a few whole parsley leaves or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. A light drizzle of olive oil on top just before serving can add a subtle sheen and richness as well.

Side Dishes

This salad holds its own as a complete meal thanks to its protein punch, but it pairs nicely with light sides like a crusty baguette, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad if you want to add an extra vegetable component.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe in mason jars for an eye-catching picnic or lunch option. Alternatively, present it over a bed of baby spinach or arugula for a more sumptuous, leafy twist. You can even stuff it into pita pockets for a handheld meal that travels well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more after some resting time, making it ideal for preparing ahead or enjoying as next-day lunch.

Freezing

Because of the fresh veggies and creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended for this High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe—the texture and flavor may change unpleasantly once thawed.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can gently warm the chicken separately, but avoid microwaving the salad as a whole to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While whole wheat or high-protein pasta enhances the nutritional profile, you can swap in your favorite pasta variety like regular durum wheat, gluten-free, or vegetable-based pasta to suit your needs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. The High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it holds well in the fridge, maintains great flavor, and provides balanced nutrition to keep you energized throughout the week.

How can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

To transform this into a plant-based dish, swap chicken for grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas, and replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

What kind of dressing works best here?

The creamy, tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt, olive oil, mustard, and vinegar complements the protein and vegetables beautifully while keeping the salad light and refreshing.

Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?

Yes! Adding toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can introduce a delightful crunch and an additional layer of protein and healthy fats to the salad.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those refreshing yet hearty dishes that you’ll want to reach for again and again. It combines everyday ingredients in a way that’s exciting, tasty, and packed with nutrition. Give it a try for your next meal and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and wholesome goodness in every bite.

High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 67 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A nutritious and flavorful High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad combining tender chicken breast with protein-rich whole wheat or legume-based pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
8 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta (such as chickpea or lentil pasta)

Vegetables

1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing and Additions

1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for added protein)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook them thoroughly by grilling, baking, or sautéing until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine.
Add cheese and dressing: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salad if using. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently again to evenly coat all ingredients.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, protein-packed meal.