Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty and easy dish that combines the goodness of fresh ingredients with the comforting feel of pasta. This salad is perfect for summer picnics, quick lunches, or light dinners. The bright flavors of pesto, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables make it a favorite for many.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. It’s a wonderful way to use leftover chicken and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it’s a healthy option that is both filling and refreshing.
How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, half of the pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and mozzarella cheese.
- Toss everything together until well mixed. Add more pesto sauce if needed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Serve this salad cold or at room temperature. It’s great on its own or paired with some crusty bread. You can also add a side of fruit to complete the meal.
How to Store Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storing, you can add a little more pesto before serving.
Tips to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or spinach.
- For more flavor, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Variation
You can make this dish vegetarian by skipping the chicken and adding more vegetables, such as zucchini or artichokes. You can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe. Just choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just make sure to store it in the fridge and eat it within 3 days.
3. What type of pasta should I use?
You can use any type of pasta you like, but short shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne work best as they hold the dressing well.
Enjoy your Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad, a dish that is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor!
