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Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Bliss

This Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant, quick, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Swap with grilled tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Peppers Feel free to substitute with zucchini or asparagus.
  • 3 pieces Green Onions Regular onions or chives can be used if needed.
  • 8 ounces Whole Grain Penne Pasta Choose gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Cilantro works well if you're looking for a change.
  • 1/4 cup Basil Leaves Consider using spinach or arugula as alternatives.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar White balsamic can add a milder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Lime zest can be used as a substitute if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Always opt for fresh juice for the best results.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves If fresh is unavailable, garlic powder can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Feel free to use avocado oil as a rich alternative.
For Serving
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for a dairy-free experience if desired.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your grill to high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Coat the chicken breasts, red bell peppers, and green onions with olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Place the chicken and bell peppers on the grill grates. Grill the chicken for about 6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add the green onions to the grill during the last 3 minutes.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole grain penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions (around 9-11 minutes) until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  4. Thinly slice the grilled chicken breasts and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Slice the grilled green onions into smaller sections.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a smooth vinaigrette. Fold in chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked penne pasta with the prepared vinaigrette. Allow the pasta to sit for about 5 minutes to soak up the flavors. Then add the sliced chicken, chopped bell peppers, green onions, and basil leaves, tossing everything together.
  7. Serve the Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad warm or refrigerate for later. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra delicious touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow grilled chicken to rest before slicing to lock in juices. Prepare the vinaigrette a day ahead for enhanced flavors.

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