Chicken Pasta Salad with Pesto Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for lunch, picnics, or light dinners. Tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables are tossed in a rich, aromatic pesto dressing, creating a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.

This salad is not only visually appealing but also nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Each bite delivers a burst of freshness from the pesto and a comforting heartiness from the chicken and pasta.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the freshness of vegetables, the richness of pesto, and the savory flavor of grilled chicken into one easy-to-make salad. The pesto dressing infuses the pasta and chicken with a vibrant herbaceous flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s simple yet impressive, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

The texture contrast between tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and juicy chicken makes every bite enjoyable. This salad is healthy, flavorful, and convenient, which is why it’s a go-to in my kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms ordinary pasta salad into a gourmet meal. The homemade or store-bought pesto adds a fresh, nutty, and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and vegetables. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized with seasonal vegetables or different pasta shapes.

This recipe is ideal for those looking for a balanced, satisfying meal that is both colorful and flavorful. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner that feels special without extensive effort.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course / Salad
Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts (optional)

For the Pesto Dressing

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• 1–2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

Prepare Pesto Dressing

1. In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
3. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and pulse briefly to combine.

Assemble Salad

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives.
3. Pour pesto dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and optional pine nuts.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Pesto Dressing
Combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor. Blend while gradually adding olive oil. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Pour pesto dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with grated Parmesan and optional pine nuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish at picnics, potlucks, or gatherings. Pair with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
• Pasta can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
• Adjust pesto consistency with extra olive oil if needed.
• Add seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or spinach for variety.
• Chill salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and add roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
• Creamy Pesto: Mix in 2–3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy dressing.
• Different Proteins: Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for chicken.
• Nut-Free Pesto: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely.
• Spicy Pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta and vegetables may become soggy upon thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender for pesto
• Knife and cutting board
• Saucepan for cooking pasta
• Spatula or spoon for tossing salad

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well if short on time. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep all ingredients and toss with dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Q3: Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rotini works best.

Q4: Can this be served warm?
Yes, serve immediately after tossing for a slightly warm version.

Q5: How do I keep the salad fresh for lunch boxes?
Store dressing separately and combine with salad just before eating.

Conclusion

Chicken Pasta Salad with Pesto Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic pesto creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with vibrant flavors, this salad is ideal for lunches, dinners, or gatherings. Its simplicity, freshness, and bold taste make it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, delicious pasta salad at home.