Join me in a little picture as I take you to the center of my kitchen with fresh basil, roasted chicken, and al dente pasta – oh my! What I present to you, the Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, is more than a recipe… it’s a medley of flavors and textures, and it’s easy to do! Tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a bright basil pesto sauce made this dish unforgettable. This is a great meal for a busy weeknight, a picnic on a summer weekend, or just to share with friends at a potluck.
The first time I made this was a hot summer evening, and I wanted something fresh but filling. I had some leftover roasted chicken in the refrigerator, a jar of homemade pesto, and a box of pasta. I threw it together, tossed in a handful of cherry tomatoes, and sprinkled on some grated Parmesan cheese – boom, food stars were born! My family ate every bit, and it has remained a household favorite.
The best part of this recipe is the flavor versatility, it’s a blank canvas that you can use however you’d like. If you are craving a crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or toasted almonds. If you feel like being less bland, add a squeeze of lemon juice. You could literally add so many different things to this salad which is what makes it so great.
Pesto is the star of the show here, as it should be. Made with fresh basil, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, it’s a flavor bomb that ties everything together wonderfully. You can also make the pesto ahead of time and keep it refrigerated, so it is always ready when you want to use it.
Whether you are a culinary genius or you can barely boil water, you should definitely try this Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. It’s so easy and so good, you will get rave reviews. Now let’s get to the recipe!
Why This Simple Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
This Simple Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a win-win for anyone who enjoys meals that are equally tasty and hassle-free. Why is this dish a winner? Here’s why you should have it in your recipe arsenal:
- Easy & Fast : Since there is very little prep time and cook time involved, this dish is a great option for busy weeknights and last-minute company coming over.
- Adaptable : You can change it around however you want — throw in veggies, swap out the protein or use another type of pasta.
- Full of flavour : The simple combination of pesto, chicken and pasta makes an irresistible flavour combination.
- Great for crowds : Whether you are making this for a potluck or a family dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a fan favourite.
Tips For Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Make the meal ahead : Since you can make pesto and cook chicken previously when you are short on time during the week, it will still bean easy meal!
- Pasta : Use a pasta shape that holds the sauce (like penne or fusilli).
- Storage : Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days.
Substitutions & Variations
- Protein : Exchange the chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta : Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Veggies : Add spinach, roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for added flavor or for extra nutrients.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low-Carb : A zucchini noodle or spaghetti squash instead of the pasta.
- Low-Fat : A light pesto or make your own with less oil.
- WW Friendly : Whole wheat pasta and lean chicken breast to stay within the Weight Watcher points.
Closing
So there you have it. A quick easy and delicious meal that is adaptable for so many occasions! We would love to know how your Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad turns out and to check out more from our recipe library!
Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Description
Enjoy a refreshing twist on classic pasta salad with this Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad recipe. Tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and crisp veggies come together for a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner option.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, shred or dice the cooked chicken and halve the cherry tomatoes.
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Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pesto. Mix until everything is well-coated.
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Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2569.27kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 99.84g154%
- Saturated Fat 19.5g98%
- Cholesterol 241.67mg81%
- Sodium 2038.25mg85%
- Potassium 1978.08mg57%
- Total Carbohydrate 277.49g93%
- Dietary Fiber 15.19g61%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 133.84g268%
- Vitamin A 3674.79 IU
- Vitamin C 34.6 mg
- Calcium 551.13 mg
- Iron 11.59 mg
- Vitamin E 4.5 mg
- Vitamin K 31.43 mcg
- Thiamin 0.66 mg
- Riboflavin 0.81 mg
- Niacin 30.16 mg
- Vitamin B6 1.8 mg
- Folate 108.94 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.14 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 4.57 mg
- Phosphorus 1575.97 mg
- Magnesium 347.26 mg
- Zinc 12.54 mg
- Selenium 293.62 mcg
- Copper 1.72 mg
- Manganese 6.34 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
