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Fresh Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Fresh Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad - featured image
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A quick, fresh, and satisfying pasta salad featuring shredded rotisserie chicken, bright lemon, and fresh herbs. Perfect for summer parties and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed)
  • 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 2 large lemons, juiced and zested
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Set aside.
  3. Remove skin and shred about 3 cups of rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1/2 cup cucumber, and thinly slice 1/4 cup red onion if using.
  5. Chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh parsley and thyme, and finely chop 1 teaspoon rosemary.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together juice and zest of 2 lemons, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, chopped veggies, and herbs.
  8. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  9. If using cheese, sprinkle 1/4 cup crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan and fold in carefully.
  10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, if salad seems dry, add a splash more olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sogginess. Use fresh herbs for best flavor; if using dried, reduce quantity by half. Shred chicken by hand for better texture. Dress salad just before serving if making ahead to keep fresh. Add extra olive oil and lemon if salad seems dry after chilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: rotisserie chicken pasta salad, lemon herb pasta salad, summer pasta salad, easy pasta salad, quick dinner, fresh herbs, rotini pasta salad

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/fresh-lemon-herb-rotisserie-chicken-pasta-salad-easy-recipe-for-summer-parties/