Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Pasta Bowl

This vibrant Greek Chicken Pasta Salad combines the rustic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with hearty pasta and grilled chicken for a complete meal that's both refreshing and satisfying. I've been making this dish for summer gatherings and weekday lunches for years, always returning to its perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables.

This recipe became my summer go-to after I first served it at a neighborhood potluck where it disappeared in minutes. Now my family requests it weekly, especially when we want something substantial yet light enough for warm evenings.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts creates a protein-packed foundation for this hearty salad. Choose high-quality, evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Farfalle pasta provides the perfect shape for catching the delicious dressing in its crevices. The bow-tie shape also holds up well in the refrigerator.
• Cherry tomatoes add bright pops of color and juicy sweetness. Look for firm tomatoes with vibrant color.
• Cucumber brings refreshing crunch and coolness. English or Persian varieties work best for their crisp texture and minimal seeds.
• Red onion contributes sharp flavor and beautiful purple color. Slice thinly to avoid overwhelming other ingredients.
• Pepperoncini delivers a mild tang and subtle heat. These peppers add authentic Greek flavor.
• Kalamata olives provide rich, briny depth. Their distinctive purple-black color and fruity flavor are essential for authentic Greek taste.
• Feta cheese adds creamy, salty richness. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk offers the most authentic flavor.
• Homemade dressing combines olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs for a bright, zesty coating that brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Brush chicken breasts with avocado oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple preparation allows the chicken's flavor to shine while complementing the other Mediterranean ingredients.

Grill to Perfection

Heat your outdoor grill to medium temperature or use a grill pan indoors. Cook chicken for approximately 10 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The grilling process creates delicious char marks and smoky flavor that elevates the entire salad. Allow chicken to cool completely before cutting into large, bite-sized pieces.

Cook Pasta Properly

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente about 10 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta needs to maintain its structure when tossed with other ingredients. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool completely.

Create the Dressing

Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and becomes slightly thickened. This homemade dressing provides far superior flavor to store-bought alternatives, with the perfect balance of acidity and herbs.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, sliced pepperoncini, halved kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. This careful layering of ingredients ensures every bite contains a balance of flavors and textures.

Dress and Toss

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. The bow-tie pasta captures the dressing in its crevices, ensuring flavor in every bite. For best results, refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

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The pepperoncini is my secret favorite ingredient in this recipe. I discovered their mild tangy flavor on a trip to Greece years ago, and now I add them to nearly all my Mediterranean dishes. My husband initially picked them out of his portion, but now he's the one suggesting we add extra to the recipe!

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The pasta will absorb some of the dressing overnight, so I recommend reserving about a quarter of the dressing to refresh the salad just before serving. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prepping weekend lunches.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully as a time-saving alternative to grilling chicken breasts. Any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or gemelli can replace farfalle. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free. If you dislike raw onions, try soaking the sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this versatile salad as a complete meal on its own or as part of a larger spread. For casual entertaining, pair it with warm pita bread and tzatziki for dipping. For a more formal dinner, serve smaller portions alongside grilled fish or lamb chops. During summer months, I love offering this salad with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko from Greece or a light Pinot Grigio. The salad tastes best when served slightly chilled rather than ice cold from the refrigerator.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this Greek chicken pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is actually excellent when prepared in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully when chilled for 1-24 hours. Just reserve a small portion of the dressing to add right before serving to refresh the flavors.

→ What can I substitute for farfalle pasta?

Any medium-sized pasta shape works well in this salad. Try penne, rotini, or orecchiette for similar results. For a healthier option, whole wheat pasta or even chickpea pasta makes a nutritious substitution.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or chickpeas for protein. You could also substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese for a delicious vegetarian alternative that maintains the Mediterranean profile.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

→ Can I use bottled Greek dressing instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! While the homemade dressing offers superior flavor, a good quality store-bought Greek or Italian dressing works as a time-saving alternative. Use about 3/4 to 1 cup of prepared dressing depending on your preference.

→ What can I serve with Greek chicken pasta salad?

This dish works wonderfully as a complete meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, a simple green salad, or grilled vegetables. For a more substantial spread, serve alongside grilled lamb skewers or baked fish.