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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Savor Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad for a Fresh Twist on Dinner

Enjoy a delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, a nutritious twist bursting with flavors, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta of choice (rotini or penne) gluten-free pasta works well
For the Chicken
  • 2 cups Cooked chicken breast shredded, diced, or leftover rotisserie chicken
For the Pesto
  • 1 cup Basil pesto homemade or quality store-bought
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes can substitute with bell peppers or spinach
  • 1 cup Fresh mozzarella balls or use marinated tofu for vegan option
For the Dressing
  • 2-3 tablespoons Olive oil adjust according to preference
  • 1/2 lemon Lemon juice fresh-squeezed for best flavor

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, shred or dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and basil pesto. Fold gently until well-coated.
  4. Add halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
  5. Drizzle olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Toss again to evenly coat everything.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use, stored in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be served warm or cold, and it’s great for meal prep or picnics.

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