Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
A vibrant and refreshing Pesto Chicken Salad that combines tender cooked chicken with flavorful basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh mixed greens for a light and healthy meal option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
Dressing
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Start by cooking the chicken until fully done. You can grill, bake, or pan-cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. Rinse and dry your mixed greens thoroughly.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooked chicken pieces with the pesto until well coated. Add the cherry tomatoes and mixed greens and gently toss again to combine all elements evenly without bruising the greens.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill briefly for a cold salad experience. This dish works well as a light lunch or dinner option.
Notes
- You can substitute pesto with your favorite herb sauce or dressing if desired.
- For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; add greens just before serving to avoid wilting.
- Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the pesto well.
Keywords: Pesto chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, basil pesto recipe, cherry tomato salad, green salad with chicken, easy chicken salad
Find it online: https://cookcrisis.com/pesto-chicken-salad-recipe/
