Cold Chicken Spinach Pasta Salad

This Cold Chicken Spinach Pasta Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and your favorite pasta, this salad is tossed in a flavorful dressing that brings all the ingredients together. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it at a summer gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for meal prep: This salad can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Healthy and filling: Packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich spinach, and whole grains from the pasta, it’s a wholesome meal that will leave you satisfied.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Great for gatherings: This salad holds up well at room temperature, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or barbecues.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken breast, diced
• Cooked pasta (any variety)
• Fresh spinach leaves
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Feta cheese crumbles
• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the pasta: Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the chicken: If using leftover cooked chicken, dice it into bite-sized pieces. If starting with raw chicken, cook it thoroughly, seasoning as desired, and then cut into small chunks.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
5. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until well coated.
6. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (for the pasta and chicken)
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Change up the greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try using arugula, kale, or mixed greens.
• Add more veggies: Cucumber, bell peppers, or avocado would make great additions to this salad.
• Try a different pasta: Whole wheat pasta, gluten-free varieties, or even a fun shape like rotini or farfalle will all work well.
• Switch up the dressing: Experiment with a balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon tahini dressing for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it longer to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, you can reheat the pasta and chicken slightly before assembling the salad. Just be sure to add the spinach and dressing afterward to avoid wilting.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe and saves time!

2. Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety.

3. How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I freeze this salad?

No, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh spinach and the dressing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

5. What other cheeses can I use besides feta?

You can try goat cheese, Parmesan, or even mozzarella balls for a different twist.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any type of pasta works well in this salad. Penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta are great options.

7. How do I keep the spinach from wilting?

If you’re planning to store the salad for later, add the spinach just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

8. Is this salad keto-friendly?

No, due to the pasta, this salad isn’t keto-friendly. However, you can omit the pasta or use a low-carb alternative to make it keto.

9. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

10. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be a quick substitute, though fresh or leftover cooked chicken will have a better texture.

Conclusion

This Cold Chicken Spinach Pasta Salad is a delicious and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it at a summer event, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its fresh ingredients, healthy balance of protein and greens, and customizable options, you can easily make this dish your own!

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