Cilantro pesto chicken salad on a white plate garnished with fresh herbs

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, look no further than this Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad.

It’s a vibrant combination of shredded chicken and zesty cilantro pesto, balanced beautifully with fresh cherry tomatoes and a hint of red onion.

Whether you’re hosting a picnic, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something fresh, this salad will delight your taste buds and make your kitchen smell amazing!

Recipe Information

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 310
Protein: 29 grams
Carbohydrates: 6 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 350 mg

Why I Love This Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad

What I adore about this Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad is how simple it is to whip up without sacrificing flavor.

The freshness of the cilantro pesto adds a vibrant twist that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making it a delightful meal. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can serve it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or even on its own.

It’s my go-to recipe when I want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time. Every bite is burstingly fresh, and I love knowing I can make it in just a few minutes!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cilantro pesto
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon juice (optional for dressing)

How to Make Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cilantro pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion.

Step 2: Mix Well

Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the pesto, ensuring every bit of flavor is present.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Add Extra Flavor

If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice for that extra flavor kick.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal!

Tips & Variations

Add Crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for an added crunch.
Make it a Meal: For a heartier meal, serve this salad in whole wheat wraps or alongside pita bread.
Diet-Friendly Swaps: To make it gluten-free, pair it with gluten-free wraps or salads. For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Garnish: Add some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top just before serving for a delightful crunch.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Substitute the cilantro pesto with a creamy tahini dressing and add in olives and feta cheese.
Avocado Chicken Salad: Make it creamy by adding diced avocado and a squeeze of lime juice for freshness.
Buffalo Chicken Salad: Toss in some buffalo sauce with the pesto for a spicy kick that’s sure to excite your taste buds.
Greek Chicken Salad: Incorporate diced cucumbers, olives, and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean flair.

Serving Suggestions for Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad

I love serving this salad on a warm day, either chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.

You could also serve it alongside some grilled vegetables or a light quinoa salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Leftovers

To keep your Cilantro Pesto Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze the salad without the cherry tomatoes, which may become mushy when thawed. When stored properly, you can keep it for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Helpful Questions

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic time-saver and adds extra flavor.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Adding beans, like chickpeas or kidney beans, will boost its heartiness and protein content.
Is cilantro pesto hard to make?
Not at all! You can easily blend together fresh cilantro, nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese to whip up a homemade pesto.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making this salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, just keep the tomatoes separate until you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
You can substitute with a different herb, such as basil or parsley, for a unique twist on the pesto!