Looking for a fresh new chicken salad recipe? This healthy chicken pesto salad is about to become your new go-to lunch.
Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this salad has it all. The basil pesto adds a creamy, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the chicken and veggies.
Best of all, this chicken pesto salad comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. No muss, no fuss. Simply toss together mixed greens, roasted chicken breast, juicy tomatoes, shredded cheese, and pesto until well combined.
Drizzle on some olive oil and balsamic for an extra pop. Season with salt and pepper and voila! You’ve got a balanced meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
This chicken pesto salad is versatile too. Customize with your favorite add-ins like avocado, cucumbers, nuts…you name it.
Ready to whip up this easy chicken pesto salad recipe? Here’s how to make this flavorful dish in 5 simple steps.
About This Chicken Salad Recipe
This healthy chicken pesto salad recipe is a fresh and delicious meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from greens, this salad will keep you full and satisfied. The basil pesto adds great flavor and creaminess without needing mayo or dairy. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and highly customizable based on your tastes.
Chicken Pesto Salad Recipe Ingredients
- Chicken breast, cooked and cubed
- Mixed greens like spinach, kale, arugula
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- Basil pesto
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: avocado, bell peppers, cucumbers, olives, nuts
How to Make This Recipe
- Cook chicken breast and cube into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cheese, and any other desired veggies.
- Drizzle pesto over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Add cooked chicken and gently toss again until combined.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Try these other healthy and tasty salad recipes:
- Chicken Caprese Salad Recipe
- Keto Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe With Zesty Dressing
- Chicken caesar salad
- Chicken taco salad
- Keto Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe With Lime Dressing
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 190mg |
| Potassium | 781mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 30g |
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The veggies may get soggy after a day or two.
Conclusion
This fresh and healthy chicken pesto salad is packed with flavor and nutrition. The basil pesto adds creaminess without needing mayo, and it’s highly customizable with your choice of veggies, cheese, and add-ins. Easy to whip up for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad will satisfy your craving for something refreshing and delicious. Pair it with whole grain bread or pasta for a complete meal.
FAQS
What kind of pesto works best for this chicken salad recipe?
Traditional basil pesto works wonderfully and provides that classic Italian flavor. However, you can also experiment with other pesto varieties like sun-dried tomato pesto, artichoke pesto, or spinach pesto for a unique twist. The key is to use a high-quality pesto with fresh ingredients.
Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted, grilled, or rotisserie chicken breasts or tenders are perfect for this recipe. Simply cube or shred the chicken to bite-sized pieces before adding to the salad.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken breasts for this recipe?
We recommend baking, grilling, or poaching chicken breasts until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before cubing. You can also use canned chicken breast if you’re really pressed for time.
How long will this pesto chicken salad keep in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this salad will keep 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The veggies may get slightly soggy after the first 1-2 days. For best texture, enjoy this salad within the first 2 days.
Can I use kale or spinach instead of mixed greens?
Absolutely! The pesto pairs well with any leafy greens you love. Baby kale, spinach, arugula, spring mix, and romaine would all work wonderfully.
What’s your favorite add-in for this chicken pesto salad recipe?
Some of our favorite add-ins include cherry tomatoes, avocado, feta cheese, cucumber, roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, olives, roasted broccoli, and sun-dried tomatoes. Get creative with your favorite veggies and mix-ins!
Is this chicken pesto salad gluten-free and dairy-free?
The salad is naturally gluten-free, but double check that your pesto choice is certified gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese and use dairy-free pesto. You can add toasted nuts or seeds instead of cheese for crunch.
