Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine a perfect harmony of tender chicken, al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all brought together by a tantalizing balsamic vinaigrette that promises to elevate your meal from simple to spectacular. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a refreshing summer lunch, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool pasta down.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare other ingredients. Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes, halve cherry tomatoes, and chop fresh basil leaves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to coat all ingredients thoroughly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the salad. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This chilling time helps enhance the overall taste of the pasta salad.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing main dish or side salad. Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and let it cool completely before mixing.
- Choose a high-quality balsamic vinaigrette or make your own for a more personalized taste.
- Always rinse pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
- Let the salad chill for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- Use fresh basil for the most vibrant and aromatic result - dried herbs won't compare!
- For added texture, consider toasting some pine nuts or adding sliced olives.
- The salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- If serving at a picnic or outdoor event, keep the salad chilled to maintain its freshness and food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 369kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
