This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is fresh and tasty, with tender chicken mixed in creamy pesto sauce. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Who doesn’t love a meal that takes minutes to whip up and tastes like a treat? I like to serve it on fresh bread or over a bed of greens—super simple and really yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken adds wonderful texture to this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken from another meal. Grilled chicken works well too!
Basil Pesto: Fresh basil pesto is ideal, but store-bought is a great timesaver. For a twist, consider using sun-dried tomato pesto or making your own with spinach or arugula if basil isn’t available.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It adds creaminess without all the calories. If you’re dairy-free, try avocado for a nice creamy consistency.
Green Onions: These add a fantastic crunch and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, diced celery or bell peppers could work as a substitute to add crunch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Creamy and Delicious?
The goal is to achieve that perfect creamy coating for the chicken without it being too dry or soggy. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Start by mixing the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the pesto first. This helps to create a uniform flavor before adding the chicken.
- Gradually fold in the shredded chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Use lemon juice to brighten everything up; it helps tie the flavors together while keeping it fresh.
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and straightforward, making it perfect for a busy day lunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and add the shredded cooked chicken. Then, include the basil pesto, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), chopped green onions, and lemon juice. These ingredients will come together to create a flavorful, creamy base.
2. Mix It Up:
Using a spatula or a spoon, mix the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the pesto mixture. This ensures that every bite will be delicious!
3. Season and Adjust:
Add some salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preference!
4. Plate It Up:
To serve, place a handful of fresh arugula or mixed greens on each plate. Spoon the pesto chicken salad generously over the greens for a nice presentation.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish the dish by adding a couple of lemon wedges on the side—for a fresh squeeze of lemon before enjoyment, if desired. Now you have a beautiful, vibrant salad ready to be savored!
6. Serving Ideas:
This pesto chicken salad is versatile! Enjoy it as a light lunch, use it as a filling for sandwiches, or pair it with crackers for a delightful snack. It’s sure to please!
Enjoy this easy and tasty dish that’ll brighten up your day with its fresh and herby flavors!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe as usual for a quick and easy meal.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken in the fridge.
What can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. Alternatively, you can try smashed avocado for a tasty, creamy twist!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated. The flavors will meld nicely, but try to add the greens right before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
