Eating Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is like taking a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen. Imagine al dente pasta twirling around juicy chicken pieces, all drizzled with that vibrant green pesto. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, tempting taste buds and making your stomach rumble with anticipation. This dish bursts with flavors that dance on your palate, bringing together the earthy richness of basil, the nutty goodness of pine nuts, and a hint of garlic that keeps you coming back for more. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad ahead of time?
- What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
- Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this dish for a summer barbecue. My friends devoured it faster than I could serve it, and I think one even tried to take the bowl home! It was a hit, and now it’s my go-to recipe for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is versatile enough to shine on any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- Its bright colors make it visually appealing at any event
- You can customize ingredients based on personal tastes or dietary needs
- Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course for any occasion
This salad has earned rave reviews from friends and family who can’t get enough of it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: A good source of protein; aim for 3-4 breasts depending on servings needed.
Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): Choose your favorite pasta shape; these hold onto the pesto beautifully.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this adds an aromatic punch; fresh basil is key!
Cherry Tomatoes: Burst with sweetness; look for bright red tomatoes for best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor depth; don’t skimp here!
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and added richness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together; adjust to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add in salt once boiling then add your pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes each side.
Make the Pesto Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil into a food processor. Blend until smooth; otherwise grab your favorite store-bought version!
Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and pesto sauce. Mix gently until everything is well-coated—let those flavors mingle!
Add Final Touches: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired—because why not? Toss lightly again before serving.
Enjoying Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is about savoring each bite filled with sunshine and joy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal prep solution
- The colors and aromas create a feast for the senses, ensuring your lunch game is on point
- Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so leftovers are a treat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta while you grill or sauté the chicken. This multitasking ensures everything is hot and ready simultaneously, saving you precious time for that much-needed Netflix binge.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or use store-bought pesto for ease. Adding cherry tomatoes or olives can give your salad a delightful twist that your taste buds will thank you for!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy cold; if reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep an eye on pasta cooking times; al dente is key for texture
- Using fresh herbs can elevate flavor; consider basil or parsley
- A drizzle of lemon juice brightens up every bite beautifully
Sharing this dish at a summer BBQ led to compliments that made my heart swell—who knew pasta salad could steal the show?
FAQ
Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any short pasta like fusilli or rotini holds the sauce and flavors wonderfully.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! Grilled shrimp or roasted vegetables make excellent substitutes for a tasty variation.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. Featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty homemade or store-bought pesto, this dish is a flavor-packed delight perfect for picnics, barbecues, or quick weeknight dinners. Bursting with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Easy to prepare and customizable for any occasion, this salad will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown on both sides (6-7 minutes per side). Slice the cooked chicken.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pesto sauce. Toss gently until well-coated.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle with extra olive oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg