This Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, bright lemon, and fresh herbs tossed with pasta. It’s perfect for a sunny day or a quick lunch!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, add the chicken, and mix in the lemony goodness. Then, enjoy a bowl of yum and sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: This butterfly-shaped pasta is great for holding onto the dressing. You can easily switch to any pasta shape you have, like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat for a healthier option.
Chicken: Cooked chicken adds protein and makes it filling. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or swap it with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill give this salad a vibrant flavor. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried will work in a pinch, but remember to reduce the amount to about one-third of fresh.
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten up the dish. If you don’t have lemons, try using vinegar, like apple cider or white wine, for a different tangy flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice salty kick. If you’re avoiding dairy, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese can be a good substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right is key to a great salad. You want your farfalle to be tender but still firm (al dente). Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the farfalle and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally.
- Taste a piece 1-2 minutes before the suggested cooking time is up, aiming for a slight bite.
- When done, drain and rinse under cold water immediately to stop the cooking.
This method keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and helps it stay separate in your salad!
How to Make Herby Lemon Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing Ingredients:
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 30 minutes to chill, totaling approximately 40 minutes. It’s super quick to make and can be served later, making it perfect for lunches or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, dill, sliced green onions, and grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a good mix so that everything is well combined.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will create a tasty dressing that brightens up the salad.
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together to coat it evenly with the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once mixed, cover the bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, the salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it cold or at room temperature. For a lovely touch, garnish with some extra herbs or lemon wedges if you’d like. Dig in and savor the fresh flavors!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Salad?
Absolutely! While farfalle adds a nice shape and texture, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture in your salad!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. A general rule of thumb is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh. For example, use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley and 1 tablespoon of dried dill.
How Long Can I Store the Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. You can also add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors!
Is This Salad Gluten-Free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply swap out the farfalle pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. There are many options available made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Just cook according to the package instructions for the best results!
