Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad that's quick to make and ideal for any occasion, packed with juicy chicken, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (bowtie or penne)
- 2 cups Cooked chicken (grilled or rotisserie) Chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Pesto Homemade or store-bought
Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For added creaminess in dressing
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
- 1 cup Spinach or arugula Fresh greens for extra nutrients
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese For extra creaminess
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then grill or sauté until cooked through. Chop into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie chicken, shred it.
Combining
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes or spinach.
Making the Dressing
- In a separate bowl, mix pesto with a splash of olive oil.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
Serving
- Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Check seasoning and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Storage
- Serve immediately or cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Notes
For best results, use al dente pasta, fresh ingredients, and taste as you go to adjust seasonings. This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.