Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Fresh

Name: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Fresh
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup pesto sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Dinner Recipes

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Fresh is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty pesto dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-24T03:02:28.566Z

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Fresh is not just a meal; it's an experience! Combining the rich flavors of basil pesto with juicy chicken and al dente pasta, this salad is perfect for warm days and friendly gatherings. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing dish that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that burst in every bite
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients that keep you satisfied

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Fresh is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will excite your taste buds. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta, while the fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch. Each bite is infused with the aromatic and zesty notes of the pesto, creating a dish that is both refreshing and hearty.

Using fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and cucumber not only make the salad visually appealing but also ensure you're getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. This salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a picnic, preparing a quick lunch for work, or serving as a side dish for dinner, this recipe fits the bill. Its easy-to-make nature allows you to whip it up in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Moreover, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients such as bell peppers, olives, or even avocados for a twist. The possibilities are endless, and this dish can easily become a staple in your meal rotation.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is its meal prep potential. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families looking to streamline their weekly meal planning.

Simply store the salad in an airtight container, and it will be ready to grab and go when you need it. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pesto sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a delightful salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

Add the Pesto

Pour the pesto sauce over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad!

Storage Tips

To store your Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad correctly, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you've added fresh ingredients like cucumber or tomatoes, consider adding them just before serving to keep them crisp.

If you notice the pasta absorbing the pesto after a day, you can easily refresh the salad by adding a little extra pesto or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help bring back the vibrant flavors and creamy texture, ensuring that your salad remains delicious even on the second or third day.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is excellent on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with complementary dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables, garlic bread, or a light soup for a well-rounded meal.

For a more substantial dinner, you might also enjoy it with a protein like grilled shrimp or salmon. The combination of flavors will create a delightful dining experience that your family and friends will love.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken serves as a lean protein source, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall health and well-being.

Pesto, often made from fresh basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. This means that each serving of this pasta salad offers a balanced combination of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can substitute chicken with chickpeas and use a vegan pesto sauce.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fusilli or penne are great choices, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer.