This Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy pesto. It’s colorful, packed with flavor, and super easy to make!
I love whipping this up for lunch. It’s great on its own or as a sandwich filling. Plus, you can always chew it down with a crispy chip—yum!
You can customize it with your favorite veggies or nuts, making it fun each time. It’s quick to prepare, so you’ll be enjoying it in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu can be great alternatives to keep the protein in.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but homemade is fresher! If basil is hard to find, try using spinach or arugula in your pesto. Nut allergies? Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts!
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein kick. If you’re dairy-free, use avocado or a vegan mayo for a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives a nice salty flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk.
Celery & Red Onion: These add crunch and flavor. If you don’t have celery, diced cucumber can work well. For a milder taste, use green onions instead of red onion.
How Do I Properly Mix Ingredients for the Best Flavor?
Combining your ingredients well is key to a delicious salad. Start by placing the chicken in a large bowl, then add the pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayo), and lemon juice. Mix these well before adding the veggies.
- Add the finely chopped celery and red onion next to keep the salad from becoming too watery.
- Finally, gently fold in the grated parmesan, so it mixes evenly without clumping.
Taste the mixture before serving! Adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your preferences. This step makes a big difference! Enjoy the balanced flavors of your salad!
How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix up, and you can enjoy it right away or let it chill in the fridge for the flavors to blend even better. Perfect for a tasty lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded or diced chicken, basil pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), finely chopped celery, chopped red onion, grated parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. It should look creamy and delicious!
2. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in salt and pepper according to your liking. Give it another quick mix to distribute the seasonings evenly. Feel free to taste the mixture and adjust any ingredients based on what you enjoy most.
3. Serve the Salad:
To serve, take your beautiful arugula or mixed greens and place a good scoop of the pesto chicken mixture right on top in individual bowls. The greens will add a nice crunch and freshness!
4. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, finish your salad with a few lemon wedges on the side. This way, guests can add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice right before they dig in, enhancing the flavors. Enjoy your tasty Pesto Chicken Salad right away or cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time. Just shred the meat off the bones and use it in the recipe as you would with any cooked chicken. It adds extra flavor and is super convenient!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use sour cream or even avocado for a healthier twist. If you want a dairy-free option, try a vegan mayonnaise or plain hummus to keep the texture creamy!
How to Store Leftovers Properly
Store any leftover pesto chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, keep the greens separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crispness!
Can I Make This Pesto Chicken Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance! Just mix everything except the greens and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, toss it over fresh arugula or mixed greens for the best flavor and texture!
