As I sat on my patio, the first hint of summer warmth teasing my skin, I couldn’t shake the craving for something bright and satisfying. That’s when I decided to whip up an Easy Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette. This dish is a vibrant celebration of colorful vegetables, protein-packed grilled chicken, and a tangy vinaigrette that sings with fresh notes. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also perfect for those lazy summer afternoons or a bustling weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—think delicious leftovers that are ideal for meal prep, and options for gluten-free and vegetarian variations. Ready to dive into a salad that brings summer right to your kitchen? Let’s create something unforgettable together!
Why is this salad a summer essential?
Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This salad showcases colorful vegetables and tender grilled chicken, making it visually appealing and nourishing.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Customizable for Everyone: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian twist, it’s easily adaptable to meet dietary needs. For a fresh spin, try pairing it with a refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week—just remember to store the vinaigrette separately!
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of zesty balsamic vinaigrette and fresh herbs elevates each bite—your taste buds will thank you!
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad Ingredients
• This colorful dish is packed with flavor and freshness!
For the Salad
- Grilled Chicken – Provides protein and heartiness; swap with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Whole Grain Penne Pasta – Serves as the main carbohydrate base; gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Red Peppers – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; can be substituted with yellow or orange peppers based on your preference.
- Green Onions – Contributes a mild onion flavor; shallots can be a suitable alternative.
For the Vinaigrette
- Balsamic Vinegar – Delivers acidity and richness; substitute with red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Olive Oil – Emulsifies the vinaigrette; avocado oil can be used as an alternative.
- Garlic – Enhances the vinaigrette’s flavor; consider garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
- Lemon Zest & Juice – Adds freshness and brightness; lime can be an alternative for zest and juice.
- Fresh Parsley – Provides herbal notes; substitute with basil or cilantro if desired.
- Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
For Serving
- Parmesan Cheese – Offers creaminess and savory flavor; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to high heat, around 400°F (204°C). This will ensure your grill reaches the right temperature for perfectly charred chicken and vegetables. While the grill is heating, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace to make the cooking process even smoother.
Step 2: Prepare Ingredients
Coat the chicken breasts, red peppers, and green onions with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This will enhance the flavors of your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for an irresistible taste and char when grilled.
Step 3: Grill Chicken and Vegetables
Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add the green onions to the grill and cook for around 3 minutes per side, until they are nicely charred and aromatic. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Step 4: Cook Pasta
While the chicken and vegetables are grilling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 5: Slice and Chop
After removing the grilled chicken and vegetables from the grill, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps retain moisture. Meanwhile, chop the grilled red peppers and slice the grilled green onions. Then, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easier mixing into the salad.
Step 6: Make the Vinaigrette
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Gradually add the olive oil, whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Once combined, stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a delightful dressing for your salad.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine the drained pasta with the vinaigrette, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors. Then, fold in the sliced grilled chicken, charred red peppers, and green onions, ensuring that everything is well-coated and evenly distributed for a vibrant Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad warm or at room temperature, topped with shaved parmesan and an extra sprinkle of cracked black pepper. This colorful dish is perfect for summer gatherings and can be paired with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad
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Rest the Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender in the Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to achieve the best texture. This also prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the vinaigrette.
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Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavors in your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad significantly.
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Make Ahead: For a quick meal prep option, prepare the salad ingredients and grill a day in advance—just toss everything together before serving.
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Store Vinaigrette Separately: Keep the vinaigrette separate when storing leftovers to maintain freshness and prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad Variations
Make your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette truly your own by experimenting with these fun twists and substitutions! Let your creativity flow and savor every bite of this delightful dish.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based option that’s just as hearty and delicious.
- Cheesy Twist: Replace parmesan with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure that everyone at the table can enjoy this flavorful meal without any concerns.
- Colorful Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, corn, or asparagus for an extra crunch and visual appeal—summer colors on your plate!
- Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to elevate the flavor profile.
- Pesto Power: Swap out the vinaigrette for a vibrant pesto—this brings an entirely new dimension to your salad with its rich, herbal notes.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Herbed Variation: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a unique twist that brightens up the dish.
These variations allow you to tailor the salad to your taste preferences while maintaining its essence—perfect for those summer gatherings or whenever you’re in the mood for something fresh! To balance the flavors, consider serving alongside a classic Caesar salad or a refreshing Mango Cucumber Salad.
Make Ahead Options
This Easy Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grill the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and flavor. The vinaigrette can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toss the prepped ingredients with cooked pasta, let it sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the dressing, and you’re set for a delicious, hassle-free meal!
Storage Tips for Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days, but keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of balsamic vinaigrette to refresh the flavors before serving.
Serving Size: When you mix your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette before serving, it will ensure that every bite bursts with flavor, making it a delightful option!
What to Serve with Easy Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Create a delightful summer feast around this vibrant salad that tastes just as refreshing as it looks.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread creates a comforting contrast to the lightness of the salad, perfect for soaking up any extra vinaigrette.
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Classic Caesar Salad: This crunchy, tangy salad complements the grilled chicken pasta beautifully, with its creamy dressing adding another layer of flavor. It’s a classic pairing that elevates any meal.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers harmonizes with the grilled chicken, bringing smoky flavors and extra nutrition to your table in every bite.
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Mixed Fruit Salad: The sweetness of fresh fruits like berries and melons adds a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta salad, making for a delightful palate cleanser.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the salad, offering a refreshing sip that pairs beautifully with the tangy vinaigrette.
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Lemon Sorbet: End on a sweet note with a light lemon sorbet. The citrus flavor beautifully echoes the lemon zest in the salad, refreshing your palate and bringing a touch of indulgence.
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this salad?
For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They grill beautifully and absorb the balsamic dressing wonderfully. If you’re in a pinch, chicken thighs can also add more moisture to the dish, but they will take slightly longer to cook.
How do I store leftover grilled chicken pasta salad?
To keep your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I suggest keeping the vinaigrette separate until serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. This way, you can savor the fresh flavors all week long!
Can I freeze this salad?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual servings of the Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To refresh the flavors before serving, drizzle with a bit of balsamic vinaigrette after reheating.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of the Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad, simply substitute the whole grain penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many fantastic options available nowadays, and they’ll work just as beautifully in this dish! Be sure to check the labels on all other ingredients, like the balsamic vinegar, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
What vegetables can I add to this salad for extra nutrition?
Feel free to get creative! You can add grilled zucchini, asparagus, or even a handful of fresh spinach for added nutrition and color. Corn and cherry tomatoes also make fantastic additions that enhance sweetness and texture. The more veggies, the merrier!
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salad is very meal prep-friendly. To assemble, grill your chicken and veggies, cook the pasta, and combine them with the vinaigrette for a delicious and quick grab-and-go lunch option. Just remember to store the vinaigrette separately until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness!
Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to high heat, around 400°F (204°C), and prepare your workspace.
- Coat chicken, red peppers, and green onions with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
- Grill chicken for about 6 minutes on each side or until they reach 165°F; grill green onions for about 3 minutes per side.
- Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and cool slightly.
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing; chop grilled vegetables.
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic; gradually add olive oil to emulsify.
- Combine pasta with the vinaigrette; after 5 minutes, add chicken, red peppers, and green onions, mixing well.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with parmesan and extra cracked pepper.
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