Are you ready to elevate your summer dining experience with a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious? Introducing the Chicken Peach Pasta Salad – a delightful fusion of juicy peaches, tender chicken, and al dente pasta that will have your taste buds dancing! This refreshing salad is perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a light dinner option that’s sure to impress. With just 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up a colorful bowl of goodness that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure that will make your meals unforgettable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 ripe peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice fresh ripe peaches into small, uniform cubes, removing the pit and skin. Choose peaches that are slightly soft but not mushy.
- Finely dice red onion into small, consistent pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced peaches, and red onion.
- Create the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and fold gently to distribute.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint for added freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peaches: Select ripe peaches that are slightly soft to the touch, ensuring they are sweet and flavorful. Avoid overripe ones to maintain the salad's texture.
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
- Use Leftovers: For a quicker prep time, use leftover grilled chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. This will save you cooking time and still yield a delicious result.
- Dress it Up: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Avocado, bell peppers, or walnuts can be great additions!
- Garnish for Freshness: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or mint for a burst of freshness that takes your salad to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg
