Easy Greek Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Tzatziki

Introduction

Creamy, tangy, herby, and protein-packed—this Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad brings together everything you love about Mediterranean flavors in one easy, meal-prep-friendly dish. With grilled herb-seasoned chicken, crunchy cucumbers, bright red onions, and a smooth, garlicky tzatziki dressing, this pasta salad is anything but boring.

It’s a perfect balance of fresh and hearty, ideal for quick lunches, summer gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner that leaves you feeling satisfied—not stuffed.

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Why I Love This Recipe

• Fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite
• Protein from grilled chicken and Greek yogurt
• A light and creamy tzatziki dressing—no mayo required
• Meal prep-friendly and great served cold
• Totally customizable with your favorite add-ins

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Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Pasta Salad:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup Kalamata olives, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the Tzatziki Dressing:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

🔥 1. Grill the Chicken

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Rub chicken with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let rest, then slice into strips or bite-sized chunks.

🍝 2. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside to cool.

🥒 3. Make the Tzatziki Dressing

• In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dill.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Adjust consistency with more lemon juice or oil if needed.

🥗 4. Assemble the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cucumber, red onion, olives (if using), and feta (if using).
• Add grilled chicken and pour tzatziki dressing over the top.
• Toss gently to combine and coat everything evenly.

❄️ 5. Serve

• Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing, cold pasta salad.

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Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for extra fiber or gluten-free option.
• Want more greens? Add chopped spinach, arugula, or cherry tomatoes.
• Swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Make the dressing ahead—it keeps for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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Storage & Meal Prep

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Great for make-ahead lunches—just pack the dressing separately for best texture.
• Not recommended for freezing, but it holds up well refrigerated.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

Craving more light, fresh, and flavorful meals? Try these next:

• A Light Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave (and There’s No Mayo in Sight)
• This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
• These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays
• This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor
• This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut

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Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a creamy, zesty, and nourishing dish that checks every box—it’s fresh, filling, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re packing lunch, prepping for a picnic, or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is sure to hit the spot.

Tried it? Snap a pic and tag us—then follow along for more bold and balanced meals made simple.