This Greek chicken pasta salad is fresh, easy, and packed with protein! Made with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a lemon garlic dressing, it’s perfect for meal prep, lunches, or a healthy summer dinner.
This Greek chicken pasta salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor! It’s the kind of easy meal you’ll want on repeat all summer.
With juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a bright lemon garlic dressing, every bite is satisfying without feeling heavy.
It’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or an easy dinner when you want something simple but still filling.
Unlike traditional pasta salads, this version is balanced with protein and fresh ingredients, making it a complete meal in one bowl.
You can also customize it with gluten free, dairy free, or paleo-friendly options depending on what works best for you!
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
This recipe is fresh, easy, and packed with protein, making it perfect for everything from meal prep lunches to quick summer dinners!
The combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing keeps it light but still satisfying.
What Goes in Greek Chicken Pasta Salad?
This healthy high protein salad uses loads of fresh veggies and plenty of flavor packed ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the chicken:
- boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- garlic
- dried oregano
- salt and pepper
For the pasta salad:
- 8-10 oz pasta (regular, gluten free, or grain free)
- cucumber
- cherry tomatoes
- red onion
- kalamata olives
- avocado
- fresh parsley or dill
Optional:
- crumbled feta (or dairy-free feta)
Lemon Garlic Dressing:
- olive oil
- fresh lemon juice
- lemon zest
- garlic
- Dijon mustard
- dried oregano
- salt and pepper
How To Make Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
1. Cook the pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water, then set aside to cool.
2. Cook the chicken
In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the dressing
Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, avocado, and herbs.
5. Toss and serve
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Add feta if using and toss lightly again.
Serve immediately or chill for 30–60 minutes for best flavor.
What’s the Best Pasta to Use?
Rotini works best because it holds onto the dressing and mixes well with the other ingredients. You can also use penne or bowties. For a gluten free option, use your favorite gluten free pasta. I love Jovial Foods. For grain free, I recommend Jovial Foods cassava pasta.
How to Make This Pasta Salad Healthier
To keep this recipe lighter, use less pasta and add extra vegetables or greens. You can also use a high-protein or chickpea-based pasta for an extra boost.
Can I Make This Ahead for Meal Prep?
Yes! This pasta salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add avocado just before serving.
Can I Make Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Without Mayo?
Yes! This recipe is naturally mayo-free and uses a light lemon garlic dressing instead, keeping it fresh tasting and allows the chicken and veggie flavors to shine through.
How Do I Keep Pasta Salad from Drying Out?
Toss the pasta with dressing while slightly warm so it absorbs flavor. You can also reserve a bit of dressing to add before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy free: skip feta or use dairy-free cheese, like Follow Your Heart Feta Crumbles
- Paleo option: use grain-free pasta or serve over greens
- Low carb: reduce pasta and add more chicken and veggies, or use a low carb pasta
- No avocado: simply leave it out and add more chicken and veggies, if you like
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! This is a great shortcut and works perfectly.
Can I serve this warm or cold?
It’s best slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s ideal for make-ahead lunches.
How long does it last?
Up to 3 days, covered in the refrigerator.
Is Greek Chicken Pasta Salad Healthy?
Yes! This salad can be made to comply with many different diets including paleo, gluten free, and even low carb with the right pasta! It’s packed with fresh veggies and protein, plus healthy fats from avocado and olive oil.
This Greek chicken pasta salad is one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to all summer long.
It’s simple, fresh, and satisfying, making it perfect for everything from quick lunches to easy dinners and weekend gatherings.
If you try it, let me know how you customize it! And don’t forget to check out my other easy summer meals for more inspiration!
Want more healthy warm weather salads and high protein meals? Try one of These!
Greek Chicken Pasta Salad (Healthy, High Protein, Easy Meal Prep)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8-10 oz pasta regular, gluten free, or grain free*
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/3 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives sliced
- 1 avocado diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill chopped
Optional:
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or dairy-free alternative
Lemon Garlic Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water, then set aside to cool.
-
In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through, adjusting heat as necessary to prevent the outside burning. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes on a cutting board, then cut into bite size pieces or strips.
-
Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.
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In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, avocado, and herbs.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Add feta, if using, and toss lightly again.
-
Serve immediately or chill for 30–60 minutes for the best flavor. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Recipe Notes
*Try these pasta recommendations for your specific dietary needs:
Gluten Free pasta
High protein pasta
Paleo pasta (cassava)
Low carb pasta
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