This colorful chicken pasta salad is packed with goodness! It features tender chicken, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and whole wheat pasta for a filling dish that’s good for you.
This salad is so easy to throw together. I often make it for lunch and enjoy it cold. You’ll love how fresh and tasty it is—perfect for warm days or meal prep!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twists, which hold onto the dressing beautifully. If you don’t have rotini, any pasta shape like fusilli, penne, or even whole grain pasta will work just fine. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this salad super easy to prepare. For a healthier twist, you can use grilled chicken breast or leftover chicken from a previous meal. This keeps it fresh and economical!
Avocado: Ripe avocados add a creamy texture. If you want a similar creaminess but are out of avocados, consider using a dollop of Greek yogurt instead. Alternatively, cottage cheese can work as an interesting substitute too!
Basil: Fresh basil really enhances the flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried basil can be used, but cut the amount in half as it’s more concentrated. Other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a different flair.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Is Not Overcooked?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is vital for a great pasta salad! You’ll want it al dente, meaning it should still have a little bite to it. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the pasta.
- Cook it for 2 minutes less than the package indicates. Check it a minute earlier to be sure!
- Once it’s done, drain the pasta immediately and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down.
By following these steps, your pasta will maintain its texture even after mixing with the dressing and other ingredients!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. If you choose to refrigerate it for 30 minutes to meld the flavors, the total time comes to around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh basil. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently mix everything together to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth dressing.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled pasta to the salad mixture. Pour the dressing over the top, and toss everything gently to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocado as you mix.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad right away for a fresh taste or cover it and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your healthy and delicious chicken pasta salad!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a fantastic substitute that adds more fiber to your salad. Just remember that whole wheat pasta may take a minute or two longer to cook than regular pasta, so check the package instructions for timing.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil (about 1 tablespoon) or substitute with fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so start with less and adjust to taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado can brown, so you might want to add a little extra lemon juice or vinegar to slow this down before storing.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients a day ahead, but avoid mixing in the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This helps keep the avocado fresh and the pasta from soaking up too much moisture. Just store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge, then combine when you’re ready to eat!
