High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad
This High Protein Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh, satisfying meal packed with tender grilled chicken, protein-rich chickpea pasta, crisp vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a light Greek yogurt herb dressing. It’s the perfect balance of lean protein, fiber, and Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for meal prep, picnics, potlucks, or a healthy lunch.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this colorful pasta salad is delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
High in protein (40+ grams per serving)
Perfect for meal prep
Fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavors
Great for lunches and potlucks
Easy to customize
Ready in 30 minutes
Served cold or at room temperature
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Course: Lunch, Dinner, Salad
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
12 ounces chickpea pasta (or high-protein pasta), cooked and cooled
2 cups cooked grilled chicken breast, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 English cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
¼ cup sliced Kalamata olives
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Greek Yogurt Herb Dressing
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
Fresh basil
Extra feta cheese
Lemon wedges
Toasted pine nuts
Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the chickpea pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Allow the pasta to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Greek yogurt
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Garlic
Oregano
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine:
Cooked pasta
Grilled chicken
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Bell pepper
Red onion
Chickpeas
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese
Parsley
Dill
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the salad.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Garnish with:
Extra feta
Fresh herbs
Toasted pine nuts
Lemon wedges
Serve chilled.
Variations
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Mix buffalo sauce into the dressing and add diced celery and shredded carrots.
Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
Add artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and extra olives for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad
Replace feta with cheddar cheese, add corn, black beans, avocado, and a chipotle-lime yogurt dressing.
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Swap the yogurt dressing for basil pesto mixed with a little Greek yogurt and lemon juice.
Extra Protein Version
Add hard-boiled eggs, edamame, or cottage cheese for an even bigger protein boost.
Notes & Tips
Chickpea pasta provides extra protein and fiber compared to traditional pasta.
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut.
Fresh herbs give the salad a bright, fresh flavor.
Expert Tips
Cook the pasta just until al dente to maintain its texture.
Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to keep it from sticking.
Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor.
If making ahead, reserve a little dressing to stir in just before serving, as the pasta will absorb some of it over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad is ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free chickpea or lentil pasta.
Can I use another protein?
Yes. Turkey, grilled shrimp, salmon, canned tuna, tofu, or roasted chickpeas all make excellent substitutions.
How do I keep the pasta salad creamy?
If it has been refrigerated for several hours, stir in a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil before serving to refresh the dressing.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 455
Protein: 41g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 520mg