If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or simply a delightful lunch, the Chicken Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken strips, tender pasta, fresh cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and a medley of aromatic herbs—all tossed in a zesty, homemade dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Each bite offers a beautiful dance of textures and flavors that is as nourishing as it is delicious, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser from the first forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. In the center is a white bowl with raw pink chicken pieces. Above it, a white bowl contains yellow spiral pasta, and to the left, a white bowl holds green leafy lettuce. Below the chicken, a white bowl is filled with small red cherry tomatoes. To the left, there are green and black olives in a white bowl and a yellow bell pepper along with a whole red onion and three garlic cloves placed directly on the surface. To the right of the chicken bowl, three small white bowls hold orange sauce, white grated cheese, and red chili flakes respectively. A glass bottle of olive oil and a small bunch of green herbs are placed on the right side. A black and white pepper grinder and a salt shaker are near the olives. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Let’s break down the simple yet essential ingredients that make this dish shine. Each component plays a starring role, contributing vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures that take this chicken pasta salad to the next level.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, they are the hearty protein base of this salad.
Olive Oil: Used twice, first for cooking the chicken and then in the dressing, adding richness and a silky texture.
Garlic Cloves: Mincing fresh garlic infuses the salad and dressing with aromatic depth.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every other ingredient.
Dry Penne or Fusilli Pasta: These pasta shapes hold dressing and combine perfectly with the other ingredients. Whole grain or gluten-free options work too!
Chopped Fresh Thyme and Fresh Chopped Oregano: These fresh herbs create a wonderfully fragrant and earthy flavor profile.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved, they add pops of juicy sweetness and beautiful color.
Yellow Bell Pepper: Thinly sliced for a subtle crunch and bright, sunny hue.
Green Olives: Sliced in half for bursts of briny, savory contrast.
Red Onion: Thickly sliced to lend a mild sweetness and slight bite.
Ground Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish and ties the salad elements together.
Arugula: Peppery greens that bring freshness and a slight bite.
White Wine Vinegar: Balances richness with crisp acidity in the dressing.
Honey: Just a touch to mellow the acidity and round out flavors.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds the perfect whisper of heat.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chicken Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

To start, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, pressed garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This dressing balances zesty tang and subtle sweetness, giving the entire salad a lively lift.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a salted pot of water to a boil and cook your penne or fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and to cool it down, which helps it stay perfectly firm for the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts into half-inch strips so every bite is easy to handle. Toss the chicken with olive oil, freshly minced garlic, chopped thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple herb mixture infuses the chicken with unforgettable earthy and aromatic notes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the chicken strips in a single layer for about 6 to 8 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. Don’t rush this step—those caramelized edges bring incredible depth of flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the drained pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, thin yellow bell pepper slices, sliced green olives, thickly sliced red onion, ground Parmesan cheese, and chopped arugula. This colorful medley is the perfect marriage of textures and tastes you’ll savor.

Step 6: Dress and Toss

Pour the homemade dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently but thoroughly. Taste and add extra salt and freshly ground pepper if needed. This combination can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference and the occasion.

How to Serve Chicken Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe

A wooden bowl filled with several fresh layers of food sits on a white marbled surface. On the bottom right, there is a layer of thinly sliced red onions with curved edges and light purple color. Next to the onions towards the center, a pile of chopped bright yellow bell peppers adds a pop of color. To the left side of the peppers and onions group, there are halved cherry tomatoes in deep red with shiny skin, mixed with small bits of herbs and seeds. Above the tomatoes, small pieces of grilled chicken with a light brown, slightly charred texture fill the bowl. On the left side of the bowl, a big bunch of leafy green arugula with thin stems and slightly curly edges forms one whole layer. A silver slotted spoon is placed on the arugula near the front edge of the bowl. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your salad with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for that finishing touch of fragrance and color. A few shaved Parmesan curls or a scattering of toasted pine nuts can also add elegance and crunch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides like crusty bread to soak up the dressing or a simple green bean almondine for a fresh veggie complement. For something heartier, grilled vegetables or a roasted potato dish can round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this chicken pasta salad in pretty glass bowls or mason jars for picnics or casual get-togethers. Layer the ingredients for a stunning visual effect or scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun and edible bowl that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken pasta salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Just give it a quick toss before serving.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Because of the fresh herbs, arugula, and dressing, freezing is not recommended as the greens may wilt and the texture of ingredients can change upon thawing.

Reheating

If you prefer your salad warm, gently reheat the portion you want in a microwave-safe bowl until just heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the pasta firm and the chicken juicy. Alternatively, serve chilled or at room temperature for convenient, delicious enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Absolutely! While penne or fusilli are perfect for holding the dressing and ingredients, feel free to experiment with other shapes like farfalle or rotini for slight variations in texture and bite.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add hearty ingredients like roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu to keep it filling and protein-packed while maintaining all the flavor and freshness.

How long does the salad stay fresh in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for up to 3 days. Beyond that, the greens might lose their crispness, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Can I prepare this salad ahead for a party?

Definitely! Prepare all components separately and toss together just before serving to keep the salad vibrant and crunchy. If tossed early, keep it refrigerated and stir gently before serving.

What can I substitute for fresh herbs if I don’t have any on hand?

Dried herbs can work in a pinch—use about one-third the amount called for fresh since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh herbs really make a difference in brightening up this salad’s flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Chicken Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Herbs Recipe—it’s fresh, easy, and utterly satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a wholesome meal any day. I encourage you to give this recipe a go; once you experience the harmony of flavors and textures, it just might become one of your go-to favorites, too!