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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Chicken pesto pasta salad in a large white bowl with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh basil
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This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant vegetables in a bright basil pesto dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook rotini or fusilli according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Set aside.
  2. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, chop roasted red peppers, and finely slice red onion. If red onion tastes very sharp, soak in cold water for 5 minutes before using.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, roasted red peppers, and olives if using.
  5. Pour the pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Do not dress the salad while the pasta is still warm – it will absorb too much dressing and become greasy.
  • If the salad seems dry after refrigerating, add a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and toss again before serving.
  • Store-bought pesto works great for convenience. Rotisserie chicken is a perfect time-saving option.
  • Not freezer-friendly. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

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