This Pesto Chicken Salad is a delicious mix of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty pesto sauce. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or a quick dinner!
I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix everything in a bowl, and you’re good to go! Plus, it’s great on sandwiches or served on lettuce leaves. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this salad. If you want to save time, use rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, any small tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes will work. Try adding bell peppers for extra crunch!
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, try using spinach or arugula for a different taste. Dried basil can also work, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
Pesto: Use store-bought pesto for ease, or make your own if you have time! Substitute with any nut-based spread, like sun-dried tomato or olive tapenade, if you need a different flavor.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking chicken properly ensures it’s juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with even-sized strips; they’ll cook evenly which prevents dryness.
- Heat the skillet on medium to avoid burning the outside before the inside is done.
- Add salt and pepper for seasoning while cooking to enhance flavor.
- Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through (no pink in the middle). Let it rest before mixing to keep it moist.
Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute. This keeps your salad tasty and fresh!
How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the chicken and then a few minutes mixing everything together. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips to ensure they cook quickly. This also makes it easier to toss in the salad later. Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and then add the chicken strips. Season with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let the chicken cool down slightly.
2. Mix the Chicken with Pesto:
Once the chicken has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the basil pesto and toss the chicken until it’s all nicely coated in the vibrant sauce. This gives each bite an amazing flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
3. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and the chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl with the chicken and pesto. Gently toss everything together, making sure the tomatoes are mixed in well without getting squished. This is where your salad starts to come together!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve your Pesto Chicken Salad! Transfer it beautifully to a serving bowl and sprinkle extra basil leaves on top for a fresh touch. You can enjoy it right away as a salad or chill it in the fridge for a bit before serving. It’s delicious on its own, or try it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich!
Enjoy every colorful and flavorful bite of this amazing Pesto Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Store-Bought Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken and mix it with the pesto and other ingredients as you would with cooked chicken breasts.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Leftover Pesto Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served fresh, but it will still taste great after a day or two!
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version. Toss them in pesto as you would with the chicken for a flavorful salad.
What Else Can I Add to the Salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for more texture and flavor. Feta cheese or mozzarella balls also make great additions!
