Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or light dinners. Featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a vibrant basil pesto, this salad is tossed with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

ingredients

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad (25-Minutes)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastacooked chicken breastbasil pestocherry tomatoesfresh mozzarella ballsbaby spinach (optional)olive oilsalt and peppergrated Parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded or cubed chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.

Add the basil pesto and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss everything together until well coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

If using, gently fold in fresh baby spinach for added greens.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to chill before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.

Add roasted red peppers or olives for more Mediterranean flavor.

Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Substitute arugula for spinach for a peppery kick.

Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; not recommended for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and can be made up to a day in advance.

What kind of chicken should I use?

Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work well.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought or homemade pesto both taste great in this recipe.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

It’s typically served cold or at room temperature.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—cucumbers, bell peppers, or zucchini are great additions.

What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie are ideal for holding the pesto and other ingredients.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken or replace it with chickpeas or tofu.

Is it good for potlucks?

Yes, it’s a crowd-pleaser and holds up well without reheating.

Do I need to rinse the pasta?

Yes, rinsing cools it quickly and stops the cooking process, perfect for pasta salad.

What kind of mozzarella should I use?

Use small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cut larger ones into bite-sized pieces.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of simplicity and deliciousness. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s a go-to dish for busy days or casual gatherings. Light, herby, and satisfying, it’s a must-try for any pasta lover looking to mix up their salad game.