Description
A flavorful Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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