Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Enjoy a Flavorful Dish with Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a tasty and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad!
This delightful recipe combines the heartiness of cooked pasta and chicken with the fresh, aromatic flavor of pesto sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
With juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella balls tossed in, it’s not just a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 340
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

Why I Love This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those versatile recipes that truly shines in its simplicity. It’s packed with flavor, bright colors, and makes for a fantastic dish for both picnics and dinner tables. Plus, it’s just so easy to whip up! Whenever I need a quick meal or a side dish for a gathering, this salad never disappoints. The creamy mozzarella and fresh basil elevate it even more, making each bite a burst of joy!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Step 1: Combine Pasta and Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and diced chicken. This forms the hearty base for your salad.

Step 2: Add Pesto

Add the pesto sauce to the pasta and chicken. Mix until everything is well coated and combined together. The smell of the fresh pesto should be delightful!

Step 3: Mix in Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. These ingredients add pops of color and creaminess to your dish.

Step 4: Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go—this is where you can customize the flavor!

Step 5: Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a nice cheesy finish.

Step 6: Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Step 7: Garnish

Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a lovely aroma and a beautiful touch to your salad.

Tips and Variations

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with grilled veggies or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta if you’re looking to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to spice things up!

Delicious Variations

• Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Swap in feta cheese, olives, and bell peppers for a Mediterranean spin.
• Caprese Pasta Salad: Use fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella but skip the chicken for a lighter version.
• Greek Chicken Pasta Salad: Incorporate Kalamata olives and Greek dressing for a delightful flavor change.
• Tuna Pasta Salad: Substitute chicken with canned tuna for a quick, protein-packed alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is best served cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for warm summer days, potlucks, or as a make-ahead lunch option. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors. For a more elaborate meal, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or garlic bread, which adds a nice Italian flair to the table.

Storage and Leftovers

To store this chicken pesto pasta salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to indulge in this salad later, you can freeze it, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For the best taste, try to enjoy it fresh!

Helpful Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes! This salad keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep.

2. What type of pasta is best to use?
   Any short pasta like penne or fusilli works great, but you can use any pasta you love!

3. Is it necessary to cook the pasta ahead of time?
   Yes, make sure to cook the pasta, drain it, and let it cool before mixing it with other ingredients.

4. Can I use store-bought pesto?
   Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delicious in this recipe.

5. How can I add more veggies?
   Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini!

Enjoy making this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad and savor each delicious bite!

Print