Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

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Grilled chicken pasta salad with balsamic vinaigrette has become a staple in my kitchen for both casual weeknights and special gatherings. The combination of tender grilled chicken, vibrant grilled vegetables, and whole grain penne creates a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. The tangy balsamic vinaigrette takes everything to the next level, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Preparation is simple, making it perfect for busy days or leisurely weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful salad in no time.

This grilled chicken pasta salad is not just about convenience; it’s also about enjoyment. The fresh herbs and zesty dressing elevate the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table. Get ready to impress family and friends alike with this wholesome, flavorful meal.

Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad Essentials

Fundamentals

Creating a delicious grilled chicken pasta salad requires a few basic steps. It begins with quality ingredients. Choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a lean protein source. The colorful red bell peppers and fresh green onions not only add nutrition but also vibrant color to your dish. The whole grain penne pasta serves as a sturdy base that holds the other flavors beautifully.

A flavorful vinaigrette brings all the elements together. The balance of balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, and garlic infuses the salad with a delightful tanginess. This dish stands out with its simplicity and versatility.

Preparation/setup

To get started, prepare your grill. Set it to medium-high heat, allowing it to reach the right temperature before adding the ingredients. Season the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Brush the halved red bell peppers and chopped green onions with olive oil. Prepping these ingredients ensures even cooking and enhances their flavors when grilled.

Ingredients

To create this delightful grilled chicken pasta salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 red bell peppers, stemmed and halved
• 4 green onions
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 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

Directions

1. Prepare the grill, ensuring it reaches at least medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush the halved red bell peppers and green onions with olive oil.
2. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F, and grill the vegetables until softened and charred, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Cook the whole grain penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions (10-12 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.
4. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then slice it. Chop the grilled vegetables.
5. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and remaining olive oil in a bowl.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, vegetables, parsley, and basil. Toss with the vinaigrette, adding olive oil and reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
7. Serve warm or chilled, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad Technique

Technique

Mastering the grilling technique can elevate your grilled chicken pasta salad to new heights. Ensure the grill is well-preheated; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture. It’s essential to keep an eye on the grilling time. Overcooked chicken becomes dry, while properly cooked chicken remains tender and juicy.

For vegetables, grilling until they’re soft and beautifully charred enhances their natural sweetness. Tossing them in olive oil before grilling prevents them from sticking to the grill and enhances their flavors.

Tips/tricks

Using whole grain penne is a brilliant choice since it adds a nutty flavor and boosts the fiber content. When cooking pasta, don’t forget to salt the water generously. This small step enhances the overall taste of the dish.

For the balsamic vinaigrette, whisk the ingredients thoroughly to ensure everything blends well. Emulsifying the oil and vinegar helps create a smooth dressing that clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.

You can also adjust the quantity of garlic or lemon zest to match your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with herbs—adding fresh oregano or thyme works well in this dish.

Elevating Your Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad

Perfecting results

Perfecting your grilled chicken pasta salad hinges on two main factors: cooking time and balance of flavors. Ensure that your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F, which guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat chicken. Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

Taste the vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjusting the acidity or sweetness with a little extra balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can make a significant difference. Adjust according to your preference to achieve the perfect balance.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find that your salad becomes a bit dry, don’t fret! A splash of reserved pasta water can achieve the perfect consistency. The starch in the water can help bind everything together.

Don’t hesitate to switch up the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes make excellent alternatives. If you’re looking for a different protein, grilled shrimp or even a plant-based protein can be a delicious substitute.

Presenting Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad

Serving/presentation

When serving, create an appealing presentation by layering the pasta, grilled chicken, and vegetables in a large bowl or platter. Drizzling additional balsamic vinaigrette over the top just before serving brightens the dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and torn basil leaves adds vibrant color and freshness.

For an even more impressive look, consider garnishing with grated parmesan cheese. This not only adds flavor but also provides a nice visual contrast against the colorful vegetables.

Pairings/storage

This grilled chicken pasta salad shines on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple mixed green salad or crusty bread. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully after a night in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again.

Feel free to serve it cold or reheat gently in the microwave. Just remember, a little drizzle of olive oil can bring the dish back to life!

Conclusion

Grilled chicken pasta salad with balsamic vinaigrette brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and nutritious pasta into a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. This meal epitomizes flavor and freshness, perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, anyone can create a delightful salad that impresses family and friends alike. Enjoy crafting this dish as a staple in your culinary repertoire!

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