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Skinny Italian Chicken Pasta Salad

Skinny Italian Chicken Pasta Salad is a fresh, healthy meal made with lean chicken, colorful vegetables, rotini pasta, and homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, and easy family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American

Ingredients
  

Italian Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 –4 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 –4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 –3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 heaping tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Pasta Salad

  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts diced
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1½ –2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 yellow or orange bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 2 –3 green onions sliced
  • Fresh basil or mint chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Italian seasoning, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and cayenne until well combined.
  • Cook the rotini according to package directions in salted water. Drain well and transfer to a large serving bowl.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5–7 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned.
  • Pour the prepared dressing into the skillet with the chicken and simmer for about one minute, allowing the flavors to coat the chicken.
  • Add the chicken and dressing to the cooked pasta.
  • Add broccoli, bell pepper, tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and fresh herbs.
  • Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. This Skinny Italian Chicken Pasta Salad tastes wonderful immediately or after chilling for several hours.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Whole wheat pasta makes this recipe even more nutritious.
  • Add mozzarella pearls for a richer version.
  • Chickpeas make a great protein boost.
  • Perfect for picnics, lunches, and meal prep.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.