Introduction: A Bright and Refreshing Pasta Salad for Every Season

When the weather heats up or you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal, few dishes hit the spot like a Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad. It’s the perfect combination of zesty lemon flavor, succulent chicken, chilled pasta, and crisp veggies, all tossed in a vibrant herb dressing.

Whether you’re prepping a weekday lunch, packing for a picnic, hosting a brunch, or just need a no-fuss dinner, this salad delivers. It’s fresh, hearty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors — and best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this crowd-pleaser — from ingredients to variations, health benefits, meal-prep tips, and more.

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🥗 Why You’ll Love Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad

✅ Quick and easy — perfect for busy days
✅ Fresh, light, and satisfying — no heavy creams or mayo
✅ Meal-prep friendly — make it ahead for lunches
✅ Bursting with flavor — thanks to lemon, herbs, and Dijon mustard
✅ Customizable — switch up proteins, pastas, and veggies
✅ Family-approved — kids and adults both love it

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🍋 Ingredients You’ll Need

this RECIPE

For the Salad:

• 8 oz bowtie or rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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🔥 How to Make Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Lemon Herb Dressing

In a small bowl or jar:

• Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
• Stir in the chopped basil and dill or oregano.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Pro Tip: Make the dressing first so the flavors can meld while you prepare the salad.

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Step 2: Cook and Cool the Pasta

• Cook your pasta in well-salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Let cool completely.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:

• Combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
• Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
• Toss thoroughly to coat every piece with dressing.

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Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

• Fold in the chopped parsley and feta cheese (if using).
• Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes for best flavor.
• Serve and enjoy!

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🧠 Tips for Pasta Salad Success

• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in salads.
• Cool pasta completely: Prevents a soggy texture when dressing.
• Use high-quality olive oil and fresh lemons: Bright, real ingredients make a huge difference.
• Customize the veggies: Feel free to add more depending on what’s in season.

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🌿 Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This pasta salad isn’t just delicious — it’s packed with nutritional perks:

Chicken Breast

• High in protein — helps keep you full
• Low in fat — great for healthy meals

Lemon Juice

• Rich in vitamin C
• Boosts flavor naturally without extra calories

Olive Oil

• Heart-healthy fats
• Anti-inflammatory properties

Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Contains antioxidants and anti-bacterial compounds
• Dill and Oregano: Aid digestion and add powerful phytonutrients

Cherry Tomatoes

• Loaded with lycopene — a powerful antioxidant
• Low-calorie and full of flavor

Cucumbers

• Hydrating and rich in potassium
• Low in calories but high in crunch

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🔄 Delicious Variations and Add-Ins

Protein Variations

• Grilled shrimp or salmon for a pescatarian option
• Canned chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost
• Tofu cubes for a plant-based twist

Pasta Options

• Whole wheat pasta for extra fiber
• Gluten-free pasta for celiac-friendly diets
• Orzo pasta for a Mediterranean vibe

Vegetable Add-Ins

• Diced bell peppers
• Roasted zucchini
• Artichoke hearts
• Kalamata olives

Cheese Alternatives

• Fresh mozzarella pearls
• Goat cheese crumbles
• Omit cheese altogether for a dairy-free version

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🍽 Perfect Occasions for Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad

This fresh salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it at:

• Picnics and potlucks
• Meal-prep lunches
• Summer BBQs
• Brunch buffets
• Light family dinners
• Outdoor gatherings

It’s a hit whether served as a main dish or a side dish.

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📦 How to Store and Meal Prep

Storing

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.

Meal Prep Tips

• Store dressing separately if prepping 3+ days ahead.
• Keep optional toppings (like feta) on the side until ready to eat.
• Pack in single-serve containers for grab-and-go lunches.

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📏 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	360 kcal
Protein	21g
Fat	19g
Carbs	28g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

Values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and variations.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad the day before?

Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling overnight as the flavors deepen.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can substitute with dried herbs — just use 1/3 the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is this salad good warm?

While it’s best served chilled or at room temperature, it’s still delicious lightly warmed.

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🌟 Why You’ll Crave This Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad

• Flavor-packed: Every bite is bright, herby, and satisfying.
• Flexible: Works with what you have in the fridge.
• Fresh and Light: Perfect for summer — or anytime you need a mood-lifter meal.
• Balanced Nutrition: Lean protein, good fats, veggies, and carbs in one delicious bowl.
• Effortless Elegance: Simple ingredients, sophisticated taste.

This pasta salad feels like a little escape to the Mediterranean every time you make it!

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📌 Save, Share, and Make It Yours!

• Bookmark this Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe for your meal-prep rotation.
• Share it with your friends and family who love fresh, healthy dishes.
• Snap a picture of your colorful bowl and tag it #ZestyChickenSalad on Instagram!

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Conclusion: The Pasta Salad That Does It All

Simple, refreshing, wholesome, and irresistibly zesty — this Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad is your new favorite solution for everything from quick weeknight dinners to elegant picnic spreads.

With juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, aromatic herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again, no matter the season.

Easy to prepare. Impossible to resist. A total flavor celebration in every forkful. 🍋🍃🍝

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