Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

You know those recipes that just instantly brighten up your day? This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is one of them. Picture this: al dente pasta tossed in vibrant, green pesto, juicy grilled chicken pieces, and a medley of fresh veggies all mingling together in one bowl. It’s the kind of dish that smells heavenly from the moment you start mixing, with that fresh basil and garlic aroma filling the kitchen. The cool creaminess of the sauce paired with the tender chicken is a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s super forgiving—if you overcook the chicken or the pasta a bit, no worries, it still tastes amazing! I can’t wait for you to try it, especially on those busy weeknights when you want something fresh yet filling.

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 8 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (grilled or rotisserie work great!)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

For the Sauce / Garnish:

• 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by cooking your pasta in a big pot of salted boiling water until it’s al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes for rotini. Drain it well and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, which also stops any more cooking—this keeps the pasta perfect for salad.

Step 2:

While the pasta cools, prep the chicken. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, quickly grill or pan-sear about 2 chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Then dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, black olives (if using), and chopped basil. The colors alone make my mouth water!

Step 4:

In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and keeps everything fresh tasting.

Step 5:

Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, because pesto can vary in saltiness.

Step 6:

Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. You can serve this salad right away, or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld even more.

Variations & Tips

• Swap cooked chicken for cooked shrimp or crispy bacon for a different protein twist.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you want a healthier or allergy-friendly option.
• Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a little crunch.
• If you don’t have fresh basil, stir in a pinch of dried Italian herbs to boost flavor.
• Make it vegan by using vegan mozzarella and omitting chicken.
• To keep the salad from getting soggy, toss the veggies and cheese just before serving.

How I Like to Serve It

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad shines on warm spring and summer days but honestly, I love it any time I want a fresh and satisfying meal. It’s perfect as a picnic dish or a quick weeknight dinner. Pair it with crusty bread and a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing combo. And it travels well—great for potlucks or packed lunches!

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
• If reheating, warm gently in the microwave but avoid overheating to keep mozzarella from becoming rubbery.

Closing: This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad always feels like a little celebration of fresh flavors — simple, delicious, and impossible not to love.

Lina

Hi, I’m Lina, the creator of Lina Easy Recipes.Cooking has always been my passion, and I love sharing simple, homemade dishes that anyone can prepare.