Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe tantalizing scent of teriyaki sauce mingling with fresh vegetables brings back memories of those bustling summer picnics where flavor reigned supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for High-Protein Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad—a quick, healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful bowl of goodness that’s not just delightful on the palate, but also packed with protein and nutrient-rich veggies. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just in need of a satisfying dinner, this dish is incredibly customizable and even gluten-free if you need it. What will you add to make it your own? What makes this pasta salad irresistible? Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings. Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the stomach! Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your taste—toss in extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist. Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a big batch ahead of time to enjoy all week, just like with my delicious Garlic Chicken Thighs or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps. Flavor Explosion: The homemade sesame dressing elevates the dish, providing a burst of flavor that truly shines through every bite. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at summer picnics or casual dinners, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “teriyaki!” Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Ingredients • Make this culinary delight with a blend of wholesome ingredients! For the Pasta Base Bowtie Pasta – The salad’s sturdy foundation; feel free to opt for your preferred pasta shape! Spinach Leaves – Adds a burst of freshness and vital nutrients; kale or mixed greens are great alternatives. For the Protein and Veggies Teriyaki Chicken Breast – Packed with flavor and protein; you can use chicken thighs or even store-bought teriyaki chicken for convenience. Red and Yellow Bell Peppers – These colorful veggies contribute natural sweetness; swap them for any bell pepper variety you like. Snow Peas – Offers a delightful crunch; diced cucumber or sugar snap peas work wonderfully as substitutes. Broccoli – An excellent source of nutrients and crunch; feel free to replace it with green beans if preferred. Craisins – Provide sweetness and chewiness; try using dried cherries or raisins for a different twist. Mandarin Oranges – Adds a zesty sweetness; fresh orange segments are a lovely substitute. Pine Nuts – Give a lovely nutty flavor and crunch; sunflower seeds or walnuts are excellent alternatives. For the Dressing Teriyaki Sauce – Infuses the salad with its iconic flavor; opt for gluten-free versions if needed. Rice Wine Vinegar – Brightens up the taste; apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute. Soy Sauce (low sodium) – Adds essential saltiness and umami; tamari is a wonderful gluten-free option. Sesame Oil – Provides an authentic touch; can be omitted or replaced with olive oil for a lighter version. Garlic Powder – Enhances depth; fresh minced garlic adds more intensity if desired. Ground Ginger – Adds a warm spice that complements the teriyaki flavor; fresh ginger is even more vibrant. Onion Powder – Offers a subtle onion flavor; consider using a little less fresh onion to avoid overpowering. Salt and Black Pepper – Necessary for balancing flavors; always adjust according to your taste. Brown Sugar – Helps to balance the flavors with a hint of sweetness; honey or maple syrup can be good substitutes. Canola Oil – Acts as the base oil for the dressing; other neutral oils can be easily swapped in. Enjoy your journey in creating this delightful Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Step 1: Prep the Dressing In a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and canola oil. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well mixed. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Step 2: Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water until fully cooled. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl to avoid clumping. Step 3: Chop Ingredients While the pasta cooks, chop your vegetables and protein. Dice the teriyaki chicken into bite-sized pieces, slice the red and yellow bell peppers, and chop the spinach into smaller pieces. Trim the ends of the snow peas and slice them lengthwise for added crunch. As you prepare, visually check that all ingredients are fresh and vibrant for the best Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad. Step 4: Combine Salad Add the chopped vegetables and diced teriyaki chicken to the bowl with cooled pasta. Gently pour in the refrigerated dressing, then use tongs to toss everything together thoroughly. Ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing and create a beautiful medley of colors in your salad. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper. Step 5: Serve & Store This delightful Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain texture. Enjoy your vibrant, healthy meal as a quick lunch, dinner, or make ahead for busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Dress Smart: Keep the dressing separate until serving. This preserves the crispness of ingredients and enhances the salad’s overall texture. Fresh Matters: Always use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor and vibrant colors in your Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad. Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta until al dente, as it will continue to soften after draining. This provides the best bite and prevents mushiness. Versatile Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes; this customization keeps your salad exciting and fresh! Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp if you prefer, allowing flexibility for different dietary preferences while maintaining the dish’s high protein content. How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For the best taste and texture, consume within the first 2 days. Freezer: Avoid freezing this salad, as the pasta and vegetables may lose their texture and freshness upon thawing. Reheating: If desired, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of extra dressing to revive flavors and moisture. Serving Tips: Keep the dressing separate until serving to ensure every ingredient remains crisp and delightful in this flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad. Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Variations Get creative and personalize your Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad with these tempting options that will excite your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute the teriyaki sauce with a nut-free option, or skip the optional cheese for a lighter salad. Enjoy a lighter, fresher vibe while still indulging your cravings. Vegetarian: Swap teriyaki chicken with tofu marinated in the same sauce for a protein-packed vegetarian twist. This option is not just healthier but equally delightful, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free for a safe and tasty dish. Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate the effort, and they’ll love digging into this vibrant meal! Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of Sriracha to the dressing for an extra layer of heat. The spice factor will wake up your taste buds for an exhilarating experience with every bite! Crunchier Textures: Incorporate shredded carrots or crisp radishes for a delightful crunch and an added veggie boost. Thanks to these additions, your salad will be a refreshing mix of flavors and textures. Nut-Free: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds to maintain that crunch without the nuts. It’s a fantastic solution for those with nut allergies yet still craving a little crunch! Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant twist that enhances flavor and freshness. These herbs elevate your dish, turning it into a vibrant feast for the senses. Seasonal Veggies: In summer, throw in cherry tomatoes or zucchini, and in fall, consider roasted butternut squash for a seasonal touch. Your dish’s versatility means you can savor the best of each season in every bite! As you enjoy this delicious Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad, think about trying it alongside my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or perhaps a refreshing Broccoli Salad for a well-rounded meal! Make Ahead Options These High-Protein Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can cook the pasta and chop the vegetables up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator in separate airtight containers. This keeps the veggies crisp and fresh, preventing them from wilting. The teriyaki chicken can also be prepared ahead—ideally the day before—ensuring the flavors fully develop. When it’s time to serve, simply toss everything together with the homemade dressing, which you can make a day in advance and keep refrigerated. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, nutritious meal ready in no time, perfect for those hectic weeknights! What to Serve with High-Protein Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad This vibrant salad is the perfect centerpiece for a nutritious meal, inviting endless possibilities for delightful pairings. Grilled Asparagus: The tender, charred flavor of asparagus adds a lovely depth to your meal while enhancing the healthy aspect. Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing, complementing the salad’s flavors beautifully. Crispy Wontons: Their crunchy texture provides a fun contrast to the salad, making every bite a thrilling experience. Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch, balancing the sweetness of the teriyaki dressing perfectly. Refreshing Mango Smoothie: The sweetness and creaminess of a mango smoothie can provide a delightful contrast to the savory pasta salad for a balanced meal. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the dish, adding warmth and heartiness to your plate. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing can keep the meal fresh and bright, enhancing the vibrant flavors of the pasta salad. Each of these pairings not only complements the savory notes of the teriyaki-inspired dish but also brings variety and excitement to your dining table. Enjoy experimenting! Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs What type of pasta is best for this salad? Absolutely! Bowtie pasta is the traditional choice due to its ability to hold the dressing well, but feel free to substitute any pasta shape you prefer, like fusilli or penne. Just make sure it’s cooked to al dente for the best texture! How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken pasta salad? Store your Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For optimal taste and texture, enjoy it within the first 2 days. Keeping the dressing separate until serving can also help maintain freshness and crunch in your salad. Can I freeze this salad? I recommend avoiding freezing this salad, as the pasta and fresh vegetables may lose their delightful texture and taste once thawed. If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them in the fridge for a few days for maximum enjoyment. What if my vegetables look wilted? Oh no! If your vegetables are wilted or soft, they may not be as enjoyable in the salad. I recommend checking for freshness when selecting. Always opt for vibrant colors and a firm texture. If they are already prepared, you may consider giving crunchy alternatives like cucumbers or bell peppers to keep the dish appealing. Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions? Very! This Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is incredibly customizable. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also swap chicken for plant-based proteins like tofu, chickpeas, or even shrimp, making this salad flexible for various diets. How can I enhance the flavor of my dressing? To intensify the dressing’s flavor, consider using fresh minced garlic or ginger instead of the powdered versions. You can also add a splash of lime juice or a dash of Sriracha for a kick of acidity or heat! Adjust according to your taste preference for a truly personalized experience. Savory Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad for Quick Weeknight Magic Enjoy this High-Protein Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad, a quick and healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights, packed with flavor and colorful veggies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AsianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Base8 ounces Bowtie Pasta or your preferred pasta shape2 cups Spinach Leaves or kale or mixed greensFor the Protein and Veggies2 cups Teriyaki Chicken Breast or chicken thighs, diced1 each Red Bell Pepper sliced1 each Yellow Bell Pepper sliced1 cup Snow Peas trimmed and sliced1 cup Broccoli chopped1 cup Craisins or dried cherries or raisins1 cup Mandarin Oranges or fresh orange segments1/4 cup Pine Nuts or sunflower seeds or walnutsFor the Dressing1/2 cup Teriyaki Sauce gluten-free if needed2 tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar or apple cider vinegar2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low sodium) or tamari for gluten-free2 tablespoons Sesame Oil or olive oil1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh minced garlic1 teaspoon Ground Ginger or fresh ginger1 teaspoon Onion Powder or fresh onion1 teaspoon Salt to taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper to taste1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or honey or maple syrup1/4 cup Canola Oil or other neutral oils Equipment Large PotMixing bowlJar with lid Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a jar, combine teriyaki sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and canola oil. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well mixed. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Chop teriyaki chicken, slice bell peppers, and chop spinach. Trim and slice snow peas. Keep all ingredients fresh and vibrant. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped vegetables and diced chicken with cooled pasta. Pour in the dressing and toss everything thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve fresh or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep dressing separate until serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg NotesThis pasta salad is versatile; feel free to customize it with seasonal veggies or alternative proteins. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
