Introduction to Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re looking for a dish that screams summer while being incredibly easy to whip up, then let me introduce you to my Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a busy day around, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.
Perfect for a potluck or a family lunch, this salad is filled with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a luxurious pesto dressing. I promise, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a game-changer for busy days! It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic afternoons.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s light yet hearty, keeping your family feeling great without the heavy aftermath. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients for Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun of cooking, and this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad has some delightful components! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: Choose any shape you like—penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work beautifully. It’s the backbone of the dish!
- Kosher salt and black pepper: These basics enhance all the flavors, so don’t skimp on seasoning.
- Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking, they bring protein and heartiness to your salad.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle adds savory depth without the chopping hassle.
- Basil pesto: This is the star of the show! It’s vibrant, herby, and gives that quintessential summer taste.
- Red wine vinegar: A dash of acidity balances the richness of the pesto.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes: They’re juicy and sweet, providing pops of color and flavor.
- Fresh mozzarella: Creamy mozzarella balls or chunks add a delightful texture that complements the other ingredients.
- Baby spinach: A handful of greens sneaks in some health while also adding crunch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra layer of cheesy goodness, sprinkle it generously!
All these ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s not just easy but also comforting and absolutely delicious. You can find exact quantities at the bottom of the article, ready for printing for your next cooking adventure!
How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Now, let’s dive into the process of making this delightful Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. It’s straightforward and requires just a handful of steps. Grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt, then toss in your pasta of choice. Cook the pasta just to al dente, following the package instructions.
Once it reaches that perfect chewy texture, drain it, and set it aside to cool. Letting it cool a bit prevents the salad from wilting later on!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, let’s focus on our chicken. Simply sprinkle both sides of the thinly-sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. This step is where we infuse a little flavor into the chicken before cooking!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now, heat a lightly-oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that beautiful golden-brown color and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking it quickly on high heat helps lock in the juices. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
Step 4: Cut the Chicken
When your chicken has slightly cooled, it’s time to cut it. Aim for bite-sized pieces so they mix easily with the pasta and other ingredients. The more uniform, the better! This also prompts diners to pop them in their mouths without needing a knife.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Grab a large mixing bowl and stir together the basil pesto with the red wine vinegar. This pairing gives the dressing a fantastic zing that elevates the salad! Add the cooled pasta, cut chicken, halved tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, baby spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Toss everything well so that every ingredient gets a good coating of pesto. Taste it, and if it needs more seasoning, a dash of salt or pepper does wonders!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is ready to shine! You can serve it right away, or let it chill in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you like, top it with fresh basil leaves, an extra dollop of pesto, or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving. Either way, it’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to salt your pasta water well; it enhances the pasta flavor.
- Use fresh pesto if possible; the taste is vibrant and unmatched!
- Allow the pasta to cool before mixing; it prevents wilting.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies—zucchini or bell peppers are great!
- Consider marinating the chicken overnight for extra flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep saucepan works too.
- Colander: To drain the pasta. If you don’t have one, a slotted spoon can work in a pinch.
- Skillet: For cooking the chicken. A non-stick pan makes it easier!
- Cutting board: To chop the chicken. A sturdy plate can substitute.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients.
Variations of Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or diced tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Pasta Perfection: Experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for different textures and dietary needs.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or arugula to introduce new flavors and a pop of color.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor boost.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a bit of heat; it’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Classic Caesar: Incorporate romaine lettuce and swap parmesan for Caesar dressing for a fresh twist reminiscent of a classic.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Pair this salad with a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for a refreshing complement.
- Add a side of garlic bread or a warm baguette to round out the meal.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Make cute individual servings in mason jars for an appealing picnic presentation!
FAQs about Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
As we dive deeper into the world of Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, I know you might have some questions. Let’s tackle a few common ones that pop up frequently!
Can I make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepped the day before your gathering. Just keep it stored in the fridge, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together! Just remember to save the pesto and Parmesan cheese as garnishes for serving.
What can I use instead of basil pesto?
If you’re in a pinch, sun-dried tomato pesto or a spinach and arugula pesto can bring a different flair to your dish. The goal is to keep that vibrant flavor, so experiment with what you have on hand!
Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Definitely! Leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken works great in this salad. It saves time and still delivers on flavor. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces, and you’re good to go!
How long can I store Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad?
You can store this tasty salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. After that, the pasta and veggies may start to lose their crunch and freshness. So, enjoy it while it’s still fabulous!
What other veggies can I add?
The sky’s the limit! You can toss in cucumbers, bell peppers, or even roasted zucchini. Fresh veggies add a delightful crunch and color, making each forkful a joy!
Final Thoughts
Every time I make this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, I’m reminded of the joy in simple, fresh flavors. It’s a dish that brings together family and friends around the table, creating moments to cherish. The ease of preparation allows me to spend more time enjoying the company rather than fretting in the kitchen.
Whether it’s for a summer picnic or a casual weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to brighten your day. Give it a try, and I promise, you’ll find it as delightful and satisfying as I do!
Print
Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A flavorful Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta any shape
- kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2–3 thinly-sliced chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 and 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or pieces
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook pasta just to al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the chicken. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken lightly with garlic powder, kosher salt, and a few cracks of black pepper.
- Either grill chicken or cook in a lightly-oiled skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, just until browned on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Remove chicken to a cutting board and set aside. When slightly cooled, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble. In a large bowl, stir together the pesto and red wine vinegar. Add drained pasta, cut chicken, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, baby spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Toss well to combine, sample, and add more salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve. Serve right away, or keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Serve with a few extra leaves of fresh basil, a dollop of pesto, or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Fresh basil leaves can be added for garnish.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Pesto Pasta Recipe