Chicken and Lemon-basil Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 Tbsp Montreal grill seasoning
  • 1/2 lb rigatoni or other short pasta
  • Kosher salt
  • Ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup olive oil plus 1 Tbsp
  • Zest of 1 lemon plus juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Burrata for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook the pasta according to package directions, about 8 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Let pasta cool.

2. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with grill seasoning and add to pan. Cook until both sides are brown and chicken is cooked though (4-5 per side). Remove from pan and set aside.

3. In a good processor combine oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, basil, garlic salt, a pinch each of salt and pepper, and Parmesan cheese together. If needed add a splash of the pasta water to loosen sauce.

4. In a large bowl combine pasta, chicken (chopped into 1” cubes), and sauce. Serve immediately or cover and let cool in refrigerator.

Published by boymomfoodie

I’m just passionate about food!! I’m a mom of two handsome boys. I’m a nurse by education and a cook by passion. Taste and nutrition are the most important factors in my food! I also need meals to be ready in a short amount of time due to our busy schedule. Anyone can cook!! Let me help. 😘

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