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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad for Summer Picnics

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for summer picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Pasta Any shape you love; gluten-free option available
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Grilled or pan-seared; rotisserie as an alternative
For Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances chicken flavor
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto High-quality jarred or homemade
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Adds acidity; balsamic is an alternative
For Freshness
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Halved
  • 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls Feta cheese can substitute
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Arugula or kale can work as well
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a vegan option

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Allow to cool and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine basil pesto and red wine vinegar. Add cooled pasta, chopped chicken, halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and spinach. Toss gently to coat.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more pesto or salt as desired and drizzle extra red wine vinegar if preferred.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with basil or extra pesto, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure pasta is cooled before mixing to avoid wilting. Adjust seasoning to taste for the best flavor. Perfect for meal prep and fresh ingredients yield the best results.

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