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–+ servings
Callie Brooks

Creamy High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chicken

A bright, satisfying dish that balances tangy Greek yogurt dressing with tender chicken and fresh veggies — perfect for a hearty, protein-forward meal without heavy mayo.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Bram pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne) Cook according to package directions.
  • 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced Rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken works.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Halve right before tossing.
  • 1 cup English cucumber, chopped Seeds removed if very watery.
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella, torn or cubed Can swap for feta for a tangy element.
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped (basil, parsley, or dill) Add just before serving for freshness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference.
For the Dressing
  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt Use nonfat, low-fat for fewer calories; full-fat for richness.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • 2 tsp garlic powder

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside to cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
Assembly
  1. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, diced chicken, and torn mozzarella.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and add chopped fresh herbs.
  3. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Chill for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld, or serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 43gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3g

Notes

For best results, cool the salad completely before refrigerating. Do not freeze the salad as cucumbers and tomatoes will become watery. If making ahead, store dressing separately and combine just before serving.

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