Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad: Irresistibly Creamy & Flavorful Delight

Why This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Will Make Your Day

Picture this: It’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I’m hosting my best friend for lunch. She’s bringing her adorable toddler, who is notoriously picky about food. I needed something quick, easy, and tasty enough to impress both an adult and a tiny critic. That’s when I whipped up this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad. Let me tell you, it was a hit! The creamy pesto sauce, juicy chicken, and colorful veggies had everyone asking for seconds. If you’re looking for a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, this recipe is your new go-to.

A Little Backstory About This Italian-Inspired Dish

Pesto originates from Genoa, Italy, where fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan come together in perfect harmony. Over the years, pesto has traveled far beyond its Italian roots, finding its way into dishes like this Italian chicken pesto pasta salad. I first tried a version of this salad at a potluck, but it was drowning in mayo. I knew I could make it lighter and tastier by using homemade pesto and adding sun-dried tomatoes. My family now requests it at every gathering!

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 people

Calories: 375

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
to taste Salt and pepper

Equipment

Large pot
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Colander

Method

Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt, then cook the pasta until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking.
While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, and dice the sun-dried tomatoes.
In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the shredded chicken, pesto, and prepped veggies.
Sprinkle Parmesan on top and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 375kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This recipe is well-loved for its ease and irresistible taste. A dish that will showcase your culinary talents!

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