Chicken Pasta Salad

This is a delicious and refreshing pasta salad that is great for a light summer dinner.  I served this at my sister's baby shower and it was a big hit!

INGREDIENTS

Chicken marinade:
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp chili powder


Dressing:
2 cloves crushed garlic
1 Tbsp dried basil
1 Tbsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 c light olive oil


Pasta:
1 lb boneless chicken breasts or tenders- marinaded and grilled
1 lb bow tie pasta
1 (10oz) carton grape tomatoes
1 c grated Parmesan cheese


DIRECTIONS

Marinate chicken in the chicken marinade ingredients for at least 3 hours or over night.  Grill chicken until done (I don't have a barbecue so I just grill it on the George Foremen grill and the chicken is super moist and tender).  Cool and cut into thin strips.

Make pasta as directed.  While pasta is cooking make the dressing by mixing all dressing ingredients in a small bowl.  When pasta is done drain water and then put in ice water until cold.  Drain off water again.  Cut each grape tomatoes in half (it makes it easier to eat) and add to pasta.  Add Parmesan cheese, sliced chicken, and dressing.  Mix and enjoy!
–Melanie