Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

This Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that shines in spring and summer. With its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. The combination of tender chicken, artichokes, and a zesty lemon dressing makes it not only delicious but also a colorful addition to your table. Prepare it ahead of time and watch as everyone enjoys this refreshing salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a bright and delicious taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side with grilled meats or as a light main course on a hot day.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare this salad in advance for easy meal planning; it tastes even better after the flavors meld together in the fridge.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, it’s a balanced meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools at hand is essential. These items will help you create this delicious Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or oven
• Nonstick skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or oven: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while adding that smoky flavor.
• Nonstick skillet: Perfect for toasting the pine nuts without them sticking or burning.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for cooking the pasta to al dente perfection.

Ingredients

This lemon chicken pasta salad is the perfect spring and summer dish. Artichokes, pine nuts and parmesan make this delicious! Prepare it ahead of time and everyone loves it.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• kosher salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano

For the Salad

• ½ cup pine nuts
• 1 pound short-cut pasta (cooked)
• 1 14-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts (drained)
• ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley and basil)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to the highest setting to ensure that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken all over with kosher salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Alternatively, you can bake or use shredded rotisserie chicken. Let it rest for 10 minutes before chopping into 1-inch pieces.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain when done.

Step 5: Toast Pine Nuts

While cooking pasta, toast pine nuts in a nonstick skillet over low heat. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown—this should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with chopped chicken, drained artichoke hearts, shredded parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and fresh herbs. Drizzle half of your vinaigrette over this mixture and toss well.

Step 7: Dress & Serve

Taste your salad! If desired, drizzle more vinaigrette over it while tossing again until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving; leftovers are equally tasty!

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

This lemon chicken artichoke pasta salad is versatile and delicious, making it perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, here are some great serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Add grilled shrimp or salmon for extra protein and flavor.

Perfect for Picnics

• Serve it cold in portable containers.
• Accompany it with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.

Ideal for Potlucks

• Bring it in a large bowl, garnished with additional herbs.
• Offer small serving cups for easy sharing.

Accompanying BBQs

• Serve alongside grilled meats as a vibrant side dish.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice to brighten up the meal.

How to Perfect Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

To ensure your lemon chicken artichoke pasta salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs, good olive oil, and quality parmesan make a big difference in flavor.
• Toast the pine nuts: This step enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to your salad.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and tweak salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for balance.
• Consider add-ins: Experiment with ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

If you’re looking to complete your meal, consider these side dishes that complement lemon chicken artichoke pasta salad perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread enhances the flavors of the pasta salad.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds a crunchy contrast.
3. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs well with the creamy elements of the pasta.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add a smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers make an easy and colorful side.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the savory notes of the pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Underseasoning the Chicken: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use generous amounts of salt and pepper, along with spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika, for a flavorful base.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and taste test a minute before the recommended time to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Forgetting to Toast Pine Nuts: Skip the toasting step, and you miss out on added flavor. Toast them slowly over low heat until golden, stirring often to prevent burning.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Be sure your herbs, cheeses, and artichoke hearts are fresh for a vibrant salad.
• Skipping Vinaigrette Adjustments: Don’t forget to taste your vinaigrette and adjust as needed. The flavors should marry well; feel free to add more lemon juice or honey if it needs balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the salad fresh.
• Separation: If possible, keep extra vinaigrette separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

• Duration: Best consumed fresh; however, you can freeze it for up to 1 month.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags; remove as much air as possible.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm gently until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of olive oil if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad?

Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish combining grilled chicken, artichokes, pasta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, perfect for warm weather meals.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute short-cut pasta with any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I customize my Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or even feta cheese for added flavor and texture!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in the fridge for a few days and is great for meal prep lunches or dinners.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh herbs like parsley and basil enhance the flavors beautifully but feel free to experiment with others like dill or cilantro.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a side dish or light main course during warmer months. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch! Try this recipe today, and enjoy its vibrant flavors!

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Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Lemon Chicken Artichoke Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish ideal for warm-weather gatherings. This delightful salad features tender grilled chicken, tangy artichokes, and zesty lemon dressing, making it a perfect addition to picnics, barbecues, or casual family dinners. Bursting with flavor and colorful ingredients like fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts, this recipe is not just visually appealing but also nutritious. Serve it as a light main course or a zesty side dish; it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.

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Ingredients

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• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound short-cut pasta
• 14-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts
• ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup pine nuts
• Fresh herbs (parsley and basil)
• Zest and juice of 3 lemons

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill to high.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let rest before chopping.
4. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions; drain.
5. Toast pine nuts in a nonstick skillet over low heat until golden brown.
6. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with chopped chicken, drained artichokes, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and fresh herbs.
7. Drizzle half the dressing over the salad; toss well. Adjust seasoning if needed.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg