Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Hey there, salad enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to share a fresh and flavorful recipe – Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a vibrant pesto sauce with fresh vegetables, making it perfect for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog! Let’s dive into this delicious and hearty salad!
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Additional Tips and Variations
- Nutrition Information
- Conclusion
- Recommended Product
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini), cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and cool under cold water. If using leftover chicken, make sure it is diced or shredded.
- Combine the Salad:In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, red onion, and basil leaves. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
- Add the Pesto Sauce:Add the pesto sauce to the salad and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with Parmesan:Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
- Serve:Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad!
Additional Tips and Variations
- Extra Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for freshness.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Benefits: This salad provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. For another delightful option, check out my Chicken Mango Avocado Salad.
Conclusion
My Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a fresh pesto sauce. Perfect for any meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. I hope you enjoy making and eating this salad as much as I do. If you’re looking for more salad inspiration, don’t miss my Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad.
Recommended Product
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Explore: Check out my other summer favorites like the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Bacon and Avocado and the Hawaiian Chicken Salad. Happy cooking!
