Description
Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and aromatic basil pesto for a delightful meal. Perfect for gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad not only impresses with its stunning visuals but also tantalizes the taste buds. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to elevate your dining experience!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Chicken: In a pot of boiling salted water, poach chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Remove and let rest.
- 2. Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- 3. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- 4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix chopped chicken, cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and pesto. Toss gently to coat.
- 5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and toss again.
- 6. Serve: Transfer to serving plates or a bowl; enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg