It all started one golden summer afternoon when the sun was just warm enough to invite everyone outdoors. The backyard table was set with bright linens, a pitcher of lemonade, and the sound of laughter carrying through the air. That day, I decided to make something light but full of flavor—a dish that could hold its own among grilled veggies, fresh fruit, and the excitement of family catching up. That dish became my Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta.
As the chicken sizzled on the grill, the air filled with the fresh scent of lemon zest, earthy basil, and smoky herbs. The pasta cooled on the counter, ready to soak up that vibrant green pesto. When everything came together—the juicy grilled chicken, fragrant basil, and tangy crumble of feta—it felt like the perfect symphony of summer flavor. Everyone went back for seconds, and some even tucked away leftovers for later, always a true sign of success.
Over time, this pasta salad became my go-to for more than just backyard picnics. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, hearty enough for a potluck, and elegant enough to take center stage at a lunch party. Each bite reminds me of that sunny afternoon—of good food that doesn’t try too hard yet always brings people together.
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Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A bright Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad with lemon-marinated grilled chicken, basil pesto, and creamy feta. Perfect for picnics and quick dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme for 15–20 minutes.
2. Preheat grill pan to medium-high and grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Rest and slice.
3. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, drain, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to make the lemon-herb dressing.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with basil pesto and toss to coat.
6. Add halved cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced red onion, and sliced chicken to the bowl.
7. Drizzle the lemon-herb dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
8. Fold in crumbled feta cheese, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: grilling
- Cuisine: mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Keywords: lemon, herb, chicken, pasta salad, basil pesto, feta, mediterranean, summer, picnic
Why Lemon-Herb Flavors and Creamy Feta Are a Perfect Match
There’s something magical about the way lemon and herbs come together. The brightness of the citrus lifts the richness of grilled chicken, while fresh basil and parsley add a garden-fresh note that ties everything together. Then enters the feta—crumbly, creamy, and just salty enough to balance every forkful.
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this recipe captures both comfort and lightness. The basil pesto gives a nutty depth, the lemon brings sparkle, and the herbs keep it fresh and clean. It’s one of those combinations that feels timeless yet exciting every single time you make it. Whether served warm straight from the pan or chilled for a picnic, Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta always feels like sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients That Bring This Pasta Salad to Life
Key Ingredients and Substitutions for Any Home Cook
The beauty of Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta lies in its fresh, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component contributes something unique—brightness, texture, or richness—yet the end result feels perfectly balanced. Below is a quick glance at everything you’ll need to bring this dish together.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Simple Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta (bowtie, rotini, or penne) | The hearty base that holds the dressing and pesto | Any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or even orzo |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Lean protein with a mild flavor that absorbs herbs | Rotisserie chicken or grilled thighs for extra juiciness |
| Lemon juice & zest | Adds brightness and freshness | Lime juice or a touch of white wine vinegar |
| Fresh basil pesto | Brings depth and a nutty-herb flavor | Store‑bought pesto, spinach pesto, or parsley pesto |
| Feta cheese | Tangy creaminess that complements the lemon and herbs | Goat cheese or shaved Parmesan |
| Olive oil | Smooth base for the dressing and grilling | Avocado oil or a light vegetable oil |
| Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or oregano) | Enhance fragrance and add color | Dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available |
| Garlic cloves | Adds warmth and flavor complexity | Garlic powder (1 tsp per clove) in a pinch |
| Vegetables (cherry tomatoes, spinach, red onion) | Adds texture, color, and nutrients | Bell peppers, zucchini, or arugula |
This collection of ingredients ensures every forkful tastes fresh, tangy, and satisfying. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add extra veggies like roasted chickpeas or grilled asparagus. For gluten-free needs, swap traditional pasta for lentil or rice varieties—they hold flavor beautifully.
Tools and Equipment That Make Preparation Simple
You don’t need a professional kitchen to make this pasta salad shine—just a few dependable tools make the process seamless. Here’s what to have ready:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill: Perfect for achieving those golden sear marks on chicken.
- Large pot: To cook the pasta evenly and prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowls: One for tossing the dressing and another for combining all the elements.
- Zester or microplane: Essential for releasing fragrant lemon zest without bitterness.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For prepping chicken, herbs, and vegetables easily.
- Food processor: Optional, but ideal for whipping up homemade pesto in minutes.
To save time, consider prepping ahead. Marinate your chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs a few hours before cooking—it infuses the meat with extra depth. You can also boil the pasta in advance, toss it lightly with olive oil, and refrigerate it until ready to assemble.
With your ingredients trimmed, chopped, and ready, assembling Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta becomes a quick, enjoyable process. It’s a recipe that rewards simple preparation with the kind of flavor that tastes like pure sunshine—fresh, vibrant, and effortless.
How To Make Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta
Grilling the Chicken and Mixing the Lemon-Herb Dressing
The secret to a flavorful Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta starts with perfectly grilled chicken and a zesty dressing. Begin by preparing the chicken: pat the pieces dry, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and a touch of thyme. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a bit of zest for brightness. Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes—just enough time for those fresh herbs and citrus notes to work their magic.
Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken on the hot grates and let it cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes per side, or until you see those beautiful golden grill marks. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a cutting board, tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for five minutes before slicing.
While the chicken cools, whisk together the lemon-herb dressing. In a small bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Add finely chopped parsley or basil to infuse it with color and freshness. Taste as you go—adjust the acidity or seasoning to your preference.
Tossing Everything Together for That Fresh, Colorful Finish
Once your chicken is sliced and the dressing is ready, it’s time to pull everything together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta (cooled to room temperature) with several spoonfuls of basil pesto. Gently toss to coat every piece. Add halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach or arugula, thin slices of red onion, and the juicy grilled chicken. Drizzle over the lemon-herb dressing, then toss again until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Finish by folding in the crumbled feta cheese. Be gentle—feta adds creaminess and tang, but you want to keep some chunks whole for presentation. Give the salad a final taste, adjusting salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. A touch more olive oil can also add silkiness if the pasta seems dry.
This pasta salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For a light lunch, serve it cold straight from the fridge; for dinner, it’s lovely slightly warm with freshly grilled chicken on top. To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
| Step | Action | Approx. Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marinate and grill chicken | 25–30 minutes | Let rest before slicing |
| 2 | Boil pasta and cool | 10–12 minutes | Toss with olive oil to prevent sticking |
| 3 | Prepare lemon-herb dressing | 5 minutes | Adjust flavor to taste |
| 4 | Combine salad ingredients | 5 minutes | Add dressing and feta last |
| 5 | Chill or serve immediately | Optional 15 minutes | Chilling deepens flavor |
Each bite of Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta bursts with freshness—bright lemon, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy feta wrapped in fragrant pesto. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and light, effortless yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Perfecting Your Chicken Pasta Salad Every Time
Expert Tips and Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
- Keep the pasta firm: Cook it al dente so it stays sturdy once dressed.
- Prevent dryness: Toss warm pasta with olive oil; refresh later with a spoon of pesto or lemon juice.
- Marinate the chicken: At least 30 minutes in oil, lemon, and herbs deepens flavor.
- Balance is key: Taste as you go to balance the feta’s saltiness, pesto’s richness, and lemon’s brightness.
- Serving ideas: Great chilled for picnics or paired with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp white wine at dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance but add feta and dressing right before serving for the best texture and freshness.
2. What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Short shapes like bowtie, rotini, or penne hold pesto and dressing best.
3. How long can I store this pasta salad in the fridge?
Stored airtight, it stays fresh up to three days. Add a drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice to revive it before serving.
4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Absolutely—toss it with lemon juice and herbs to enhance its flavor before mixing into the salad.
5. Is basil pesto store-bought or homemade better?
Both work well. Store-bought saves time, while homemade gives you full control over flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Whether for a summer picnic, a busy weeknight dinner, or a refreshing lunch, Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta Salad With Basil Pesto & Feta always delivers. Zesty lemon meets creamy feta, warm chicken blends with cool pesto pasta—the kind of combination that brings brightness to every bite. Simple to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a salad that tastes like sunshine and celebration all year long.
