Description
A refreshing and healthy chicken pasta salad featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing made with white wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad balances vibrant flavors and textures in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 1 pound cooked rotini pasta, chilled
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Gather all salad components including the shredded chicken, diced avocados, chilled cooked rotini pasta, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and freshly chopped basil.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the shredded chicken, chilled pasta, red onion, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Be careful not to mash the avocado while mixing.
- Make the dressing: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve or chill: Serve immediately for the freshest taste or cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature as preferred.
Notes
- For best results, use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Chilling the cooked pasta before mixing helps keep the salad refreshing and prevents sogginess.
- Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the avocado, retaining its creamy texture.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to substitute rotini pasta with other short pasta shapes like penne or bowtie.
