Delicious and Refreshing Summertime Chicken and Pasta Salad Recipe

This summertime chicken and pasta salad is the perfect meal for hot summer days. It is refreshing, colorful, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make dish combines grilled chicken, cooked pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Whether you're planning a picnic, hosting a backyard barbecue, or looking for a light lunch option, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cool. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside to cool.
4. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced bell peppers, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
7. Once the chicken has cooled, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
8. Add the grilled chicken and cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture in the large mixing bowl.
9. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
10. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
11. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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