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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and flavorful chicken pesto pasta salad combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty pesto dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or potluck.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for thinning pesto)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  3. Add the pesto sauce and mix until everything is evenly coated. Add olive oil if needed to loosen the pesto.
  4. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss gently.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought or homemade pesto.
  • Great for meal prep – keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days.
  • Try adding arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken pesto pasta salad, cold pasta salad, healthy lunch, picnic food, quick salad recipe

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/chicken-pesto-pasta-salad/