Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
A fresh and flavorful Pesto Chicken Salad featuring tender cooked chicken tossed with vibrant pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp greens. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option, this salad combines herby, savory flavors with fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups mixed salad greens
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Start by cooking your choice of chicken method, such as boiling, baking, or pan-searing chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss with pesto: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the pesto sauce. Stir gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful pesto.
- Add vegetables and greens: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and mixed salad greens to the bowl with the pesto-coated chicken. Toss everything together lightly to combine all ingredients without bruising the greens.
- Serve: Plate the Pesto Chicken Salad immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for a chilled option. Enjoy as a standalone meal or with crusty bread on the side.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pesto or make your own for enhanced flavor.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top.
- Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for variation.
- Use fresh mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix for best taste.
- This salad keeps well for up to 2 days refrigerated but is best enjoyed fresh.
Keywords: Pesto Chicken Salad, Chicken Salad, Pesto Salad, Healthy Chicken Meal, Italian Salad
Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/pesto-chicken-salad-recipe/
