This tasty chicken pasta salad is loaded with healthy ingredients like fresh avocado and juicy tomatoes. It’s colorful, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner!
You can whip this up in no time, and the best part? It’s great for meal prep! I often make a big bowl and enjoy it throughout the week. Yum! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini works well for its shape and ability to hold onto the dressing. If you want a healthier option, consider whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. I also love using farro or quinoa for a different texture.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great flavor. You can use leftover chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch. For a vegetarian twist, tofu or chickpeas make excellent substitutes!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you can’t find ripe ones, use diced cucumbers for crunch or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Just be cautious with the yogurt to maintain the salad’s lightness.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and burst with flavor in every bite. If they are out of season, substitute with diced bell peppers for a crunchy, fresh feel.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds great aroma and taste. If you don’t have basil, try parsley or cilantro. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch, but use less since they’re stronger.
How Can You Perfectly Cook Your Pasta for Salad?
Cooking pasta perfectly is key to a great salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water—this adds flavor to the pasta.
- Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which means firm to the bite. Check the package instructions for timing.
- Once done, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down, which is essential for salads.
- Give the pasta a shake to remove excess water so your salad isn’t soggy.
Following these steps will give your pasta a delightful texture and taste, perfect for your healthy chicken pasta salad!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Fresh Additions:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and a little optional chilling time of 30 minutes if you prefer it cold. It’s quick, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once the water is boiling, add your rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still firm. When it’s cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Gently mix these ingredients together with a spatula or large spoon, being careful not to mash the avocado as you combine everything.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a bright and tasty dressing to bring your salad together. Adjust the seasoning to your taste!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your pasta salad and carefully toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated in that flavorful dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your healthy chicken pasta salad is ready to eat! You can serve it immediately for a fresh meal, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious and colorful salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses rotini pasta, you can substitute it with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or even whole grain pasta for added health benefits. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but you can mix everything well before serving again. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider adding the avocado fresh when you’re ready to eat to keep it vibrant!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or spinach for extra crunch and nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the other ingredients.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute it with avocado oil or even a light vinaigrette. For a creamier dressing, try using Greek yogurt or a tahini-based dressing, adjusting the quantity to your taste.
