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Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

  • Author: madison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option

Description

A delightful summer dish combining grilled chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty whole grain penne, all tossed in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette.


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 red bell peppers, stemmed and halved
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • ¾ lb whole grain penne pasta
  • ¼ cup + 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup olive oil, plus more as needed
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • ½ cup basil leaves, roughly torn
  • Grated parmesan cheese, for serving


Instructions

  1. Prepare the grill by preheating to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the chicken breasts and halved red bell peppers with salt and pepper. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  3. While the chicken and veggies grill, cook the whole grain penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  4. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips and chop the grilled red bell peppers and green onions.
  5. Prepare the balsamic vinaigrette by whisking together balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil in a bowl until well combined.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, grilled chicken, red bell peppers, and green onions. Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette and toss until everything is well coated.
  7. Serve in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley, torn basil leaves, and grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta and for dairy-free, omit the parmesan cheese. Marinating the chicken beforehand maximizes flavor.