Chicken Pasta Salad: The Best Fresh and Flavorful Recipe for Every Occasion
This Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh, hearty meal loaded with tender chicken, fusilli pasta, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, spinach, feta cheese, and a homemade Dijon vinaigrette. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, picnics, or a quick family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 pound fusilli pasta
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach, packed
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the fusilli pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, spinach, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh dill.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes before serving for even better flavor.
Notes
Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving substitute.
Cook the pasta just until al dente to keep the best texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Add extra dressing before serving if the pasta absorbs too much.
Customize with cucumbers, olives, avocado, roasted peppers, or Parmesan cheese.