This Easy Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad is fresh and bright! It features juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing that brings everything together.
Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, I love making this salad ahead of time. It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge—just like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using bowtie pasta because it adds a fun shape and holds the dressing well. You can swap it with rotini or penne if you prefer. They both work nicely!
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is perfect for this recipe. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great timesaver. You could also use canned chicken if you need something quick and simple.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are the stars here. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can work, but use less as they are more potent. Basil or chives could also be nice additions.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try feta for a tangy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each will give the salad a different twist!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pasta just right can make all the difference! Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the pasta.
- Cook according to the package instructions, checking a minute or two before the time is up. You want it to be al dente—tender but with a bit of bite left.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly, which is key for a salad.
This simple technique keeps the pasta from getting mushy and makes for a delightful salad!
How to Make Easy Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or roasted)
Fresh Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Dressing & Additions:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, give yourself around 45 minutes in total. Most of that is just letting those lovely flavors mingle as it cools!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente—tender but still a little firm when you bite into it. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside in a large bowl.
2. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This dressing will add a zesty flavor that brings everything together!
3. Combining the Salad:
In the large bowl with the cooled pasta, add in the diced chicken, chopped parsley, and dill. Pour the lemon-herb dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently to coat it evenly. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
4. Adding Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, but save a little for garnish on top. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed. It should be zesty, herby, and delicious!
5. Chilling and Serving:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate your pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all the wonderful flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. Garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
Enjoy your fresh, zesty, and easy-to-make Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, lunches, or a quick dinner, and everyone will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a fun option, you can easily substitute it with rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. The important thing is to choose a shape that holds the dressing and ingredients well.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
No problem! You can leave out the chicken and add extra veggies instead, like bell peppers, cucumbers, or chickpeas for protein. You might also consider adding some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just ensure it’s well-covered in the fridge to keep everything fresh!
