Pepperoni and Chicken Pasta Salad (33 Mins + Chill Time)

Print

Print Recipe

Here is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of pepperoni with succulent chicken, mixed with a variety of fresh and tangy ingredients.

This salad features rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, cheese cubes, and banana peppers, all tossed in a light dressing.

It’s perfect for those seeking a filling yet refreshing dish, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal any time of day.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb rotini pasta
  • 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup cheese cubes (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Prepare Dressing (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients (10 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, sliced pepperoni, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, cheese cubes, and banana peppers.
  4. Toss with Dressing (5 minutes): Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Chill (1 hour): Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Garnish and Serve (2 minutes): Before serving, give the salad a quick toss. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
  7. Enjoy (1 minute): Serve the pasta salad chilled.

Notes

To make this pasta salad a hit, ensure the pasta is not overcooked. The dressing should be light yet flavorful, complementing the other ingredients without overpowering them.

This salad is versatile and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to toss in anything else you might have on hand such as marinated artichokes or sliced red onion. Enjoy your meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/pepperoni-and-chicken-pasta-salad-33-mins-chill-time/