If you’re looking for a vibrant and wholesome dish to tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this Chicken and Fennel Rigatoni Salad. Combining the robust flavors of chicken with the slightly sweet and aromatic qualities of fennel, this salad offers a refreshing change from your typical pasta dishes. Perfect for a family gathering or a quiet dinner at home, it’s an irresistible meal that appeals to all palates.
Imagine al dente rigatoni twirled in a delectable mix of savory roasted chicken, crisp fennel slices, and juicy tomatoes, all drizzled with golden olive oil thats rich in flavor. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for anyone who enjoys a hearty, nutritious dish. Plus, it’s a breeze to assemble, thanks to its straightforward ingredients and simple preparation process.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 300g Rigatoni Pasta
- 2 Chicken Breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1 Fennel Bulb, thinly sliced
- 10 Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 50g Fresh Arugula
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
1. Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Begin your culinary adventure by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente. Follow the package instructions for timing but check to ensure that it retains a bit of bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Grill the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and place them on a preheated grill. Season them with a mix of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors. Grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked and develops a tantalizing charred exterior. This should take around 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the breasts.
3. Prepare the Fennel and Other Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add a touch of freshness to your dish. Take a sharp knives set to slice the fennel bulb as thinly as possible. The aim is to provide a subtle crunch without overpowering the dish. Halve your cherry tomatoes and rinse the fresh arugula thoroughly.
4. Mix the Salad
Now comes the exciting part. Take a large mixing bowl and combine the cooked rigatoni, grilled chicken slices, fennel, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Pour a generous splash of olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the top, giving it a good toss. This ensures that every bite is infused with the delightful meld of flavors.
5. Season and Serve
Finally, season your salad to perfection with a sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Serve it in a beautiful salad bowl and enjoy a meal that is as nourishing as it is delicious. The vibrant colors and rich flavors will make it a hit at any gathering.
Expert Tips
Consider pairing this delightful dish with a light, crisp white wine to enhance the flavors. If you’re inclined to explore more culinary adventures, check out our easy travel hacks blog that can help bring your dining experiences into your travel life too. Also, ensure you maintain your cutting tools with a suitable cutting board conditioner to prolong their longevity for more fantastic recipes like this.
