Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

There’s something magical about a dish that can express love through flavor, and let me tell you, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad is just that. Combining juicy chicken, tender pasta, and fresh veggies, this delightful salad is perfect for a casual family dinner or a romantic evening. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s bound to impress your guests, who wouldn’t love to dig into a bowl of this deliciousness?

The charm of “Marry Me” recipes springs from their reputation for being irresistible, like the real deal that has you dreaming of a lifetime together. This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad is a twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken, where the chicken is enveloped in a creamy, herb-infused sauce. Here, we’re trading the sauce for a refreshing salad, making it lighter yet just as satisfying. With each bite, you’ll find yourself coming back for more, feeling just a little more in love with every forkful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pasta (at the swirl of your choice – rotini or fusilli works well)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie is perfect)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (feel free to swap with goat cheese if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional for a briny kick)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Toss them together until they’re well combined.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a delicious dressing. Pour this over the pasta salad and give everything a gentle stir to ensure it’s all coated.

Step 3:

Cover the salad and chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4:

When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good toss again, and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve it cool and watch everyone coming back for seconds.

Nutritional Information

This delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad serves about 6-8 people, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. Each serving is estimated to have around 350 calories, packed with proteins and fiber from the chicken and veggies, while also providing a healthy dose of carbs from the pasta.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten this dish even more, consider whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein. You can also use grilled tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist, and swap the feta cheese for a low-fat option or omit it altogether. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added for extra freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled veggies or can be served as a light main course on a warm day. You might even like to accompany it with some crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine. For a full dinner experience, consider surprising your dinner guests with my Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe, which can be prepared in advance, making your evening even more enjoyable.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Ensure it’s al dente; you want it to hold up well in the salad. Additionally, be cautious with dressing: a little goes a long way to avoid soggy pasta. If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing to maintain freshness for the next day.

Chef’s Notes

• For a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes to your dressing.
• If you’re making this for a potluck or gathering, double the recipe easily for larger servings.
• Leftover grilled chicken works like a charm in this recipe, too, perfect for those meal prep Sundays.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; Just prepare it the day before, and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge. Just wait to add the dressing until right before serving.
• Q2: What if I don’t like olives?
  A2: No worries; Just leave them out or replace them with something else you enjoy, like chopped bell peppers.
• Q3: How should I store leftovers?
  A3: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to add any additional dressing before serving again.

This Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a heartfelt experience wrapped in flavors. For a cozy night in or a special event, it’s sure to steal hearts and stomachs. Enjoy preparing this darling dish and share the love it brings. And if you’re in the mood for a different chicken recipe, don’t forget to check out my Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe.

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