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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
