This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is fresh and flavorful, combining tender chicken with zesty pesto and crunchy veggies. It’s so simple to whip up for lunch or a light dinner!
I love how this salad bursts with taste, and it’s the perfect way to use leftover chicken. Toss it all together, and voilà – a delicious meal that comes together in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or any leftover cooked chicken you have. If you’re going vegetarian, try chickpeas instead for protein.
Basil Pesto: Fresh homemade pesto is fantastic if you have the time; otherwise, store-bought works perfectly. If you’re allergic to nuts, look for nut-free pesto options.
Celery: Fresh celery adds great crunch. If you don’t like celery, diced cucumber or bell peppers can be used as substitutes, keeping that textural contrast.
Red Onion: While optional, the onion adds flavor. If it’s too strong for you, green onions (scallions) or shallots are milder alternatives.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and less fat. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Flavorful?
To make a tasty chicken salad, focus on seasoning and chilling time. Salt and pepper are simple but important! Also, allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors blend and makes each bite more delicious.
- Start by mixing all ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.
- Chill to develop flavor – this step is key!
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Easy Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a fresh, tasty salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cooked chicken that you’ve shredded or chopped. Toss in the finely chopped celery and, if you’re using it, the red onion. Mixing these together first helps to distribute the textures evenly.
2. Add Pesto and Creaminess:
Now, grab your basil pesto and mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and add them to the bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix everything together until the chicken and veggies are fully coated in the pesto. This is where the magic begins!
3. Cheese and Seasoning:
Next, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese to add a delicious flavor boost. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste – it brings all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Chill for Flavor:
Cover your salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to blend together nicely, making every bite taste amazing.
5. Final Touches:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good toss again and garnish it with some fresh basil leaves. It’s those fresh herbs that will really make your salad pop!
6. Serving Suggestions:
You can enjoy this salad on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or with crunchy crackers. It’s versatile and perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Enjoy your Easy Pesto Chicken Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
How to Store Leftover Pesto Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle while stored.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together in the fridge!
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto on hand or want a variation, you could use a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing, or try mixing in hummus for a different creamy texture and flavor.
