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Italian Grinder Pasta Salad with Chicken

A creamy, flavor-packed pasta salad inspired by the viral Italian grinder sandwich! Made with chicken, deli meats, crisp lettuce, cheese, and a tangy homemade dressing, this high-protein pasta salad is perfect for easy dinners, meal prep, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Serving Size 6 hearty servings

Ingredients

Pasta Salad:

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 –1.5 lbs cooked chicken breast chopped
  • 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ cup red onion thinly sliced
  • ½ cup banana peppers
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
  • ½ cup diced salami
  • ½ cup diced pepperoni
  • ½ cup diced ham or turkey

Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: red pepper flakes

Instructions

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • Cook chicken (grill, bake, or pan-sear), then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • (Optional but recommended) Toss warm chicken with a splash of red wine vinegar and Italian seasoning.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients.
  • In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, deli meats, cheese, tomatoes, onion, and banana peppers.
  • Pour dressing over and toss until well coated.
  • Fold in chopped romaine just before serving.
  • Serve immediately or chill.

Notes

  • Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Store lettuce separately for best texture
  • Add extra dressing before serving if needed