Creamy High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chicken

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of creamy pasta salad, especially when it’s loaded with protein and vibrant flavors. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that bursts with freshness and satisfies hunger. This Creamy High-Protein Pasta Salad with Chicken gives you a rich texture from Greek yogurt and a zesty twist from Dijon mustard, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing health. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, the salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, promising freshness for a few days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It features a creamy yogurt dressing that adds richness without excess calories.
• The combination of chicken and pasta offers a satisfying texture that fills you up.
• Fresh vegetables provide a crunchy contrast that brightens every bite.
• It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a side dish for gatherings.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious pasta salad:

For the Salad

• 12 oz. Brami fusilli pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup English cucumbers, chopped
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
• 4 oz. fresh mozzarella

For the Dressing

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garlic powder

For Serving

• 2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped

For a lighter version, replace Greek yogurt with a lower-fat yogurt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breast can be swapped for rotisserie chicken.
• Use any pasta shape you prefer for versatility.
• Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs.
• Mozzarella can be substituted with feta cheese for a tangy twist.

How to Make It

Begin by preparing the pasta salad according to the following steps.

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the fusilli pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder to create a creamy dressing.

3. Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, diced chicken, and fresh mozzarella.

4. Stir in the Dressing

Gently stir the salad ingredients with the creamy dressing until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to pasta texture.
Reheat: Serve cold; no reheating necessary.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to maintain its texture.
• Adjust the consistency of the dressing by adding a bit of water, if desired.
• Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for optimal flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light side of grilled vegetables.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Perfect as a potluck dish or picnic favorite.