Creamy Cold Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing and creamy pasta salad that combines tender chicken with flavorful pesto, perfect for gatherings and meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Skillet for cooking chicken
- 1 blender or food processor for making pesto
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 1 cup creamy pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes per side. Let cool, then shred or dice.
- Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Mix with cream for a creamy texture. Season to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and chicken. Add pesto sauce and mix until well coated. Fold in cherry tomatoes and optional ingredients.
Serving
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Garnish with Parmesan, pine nuts, and fresh basil before serving.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Rinse pasta in cold water to stop cooking. Use fresh basil for best pesto flavor. Let the salad sit for a few hours to enhance flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Swap pine nuts for walnuts if preferred.
How to Serve: Best served chilled. Pair with a green salad or fresh bread.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the day before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Swap pine nuts for walnuts if preferred.
How to Serve: Best served chilled. Pair with a green salad or fresh bread.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the day before serving to allow flavors to meld.