Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A delicious and refreshing pasta salad that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich pesto, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta Any pasta shape that holds sauce well, like rotini or fusilli.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced Use leftover chicken for easy prep.
- 1/2 cup homemade basil pesto Store-bought pesto can be used as a convenient substitute.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds color and flavor.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced For crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced Adds a slight tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning based on preference.
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional) Enhances flavor richness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Dice the cooked chicken and cut the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
Assembly
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the homemade basil pesto and mix well until all ingredients are coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.
Notes
For maximum freshness, mix the basil pesto just before serving if storing leftovers. Adapt the recipe based on your vegetable preferences.