Smoked Chicken Pasta Salad

Smoked Chicken Pasta Salad

Every time we smoke a chicken invariably we have leftovers. Here is one of the recipes we use just for that purpose. Although many like the taste of raw garlic, my family does not so I simply steep fresh grated garlic in warm olive oil that lessen the sharpness and flavors the oil.

Smoked Chicken Pasta Salad

8 oz of mezze penne, cooked according to pkg. directions

1 heaping cup of smoked chicken, chopped into 1 “inch pieces

4 oz. of feta, ¼ “cubed

1 (2.25oz) can of sliced black olives, drained

¼ c of capers, drained

¼ c parsley, chopped

¼ c olive oil

½ garlic clove, grated

1 lemon, juiced

½ t Dijon mustard

Kosher salt

Black pepper, freshly ground

Cook pasta according to the package directions, drain and let cool. While the pasta is cooking heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the grated garlic to the olive oil and remove the pan from the heat. Let it cool to room temperature. In a small jar with a tight fitting lid add the garlic oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and kosher salt and pepper to taste. Shake vigorously and set aside. In a large bowl add the cooked pasta, chicken, black olives, feta, capers, parsley and lemon dressing. Toss until it is mixed well and dressing has been evenly distributed. Top with freshly ground pepper and serve.

Serves 4