This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, zesty pesto, and fresh veggies. It’s colorful, light, and perfect for lunch or as a snack!
I love making this salad because it’s super quick—just toss everything together and you’re good to go! Pair it with some bread, and you’ll have a delightful meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like to use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you don’t have that on hand, any leftover chicken or even grilled chicken works great. For a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or a mix of lentils.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick, but making your own can add a personal touch! If you run out, you can substitute with other kinds of pesto like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a bit of tang. If you’re not a yogurt fan, skip it or replace it with avocado for a rich texture.
Arugula: This peppery green is perfect here, but you can swap it with spinach or mixed greens if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor From Your Chicken Salad?
The key to a flavorful chicken salad lies in how well you mix your ingredients. Start by ensuring that your cooked chicken is shredded finely. This allows the pesto to coat every piece, enhancing the flavor. Mixing the herbs like green onions adds a nice crunch and freshness!
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with pesto, mixing thoroughly.
- For creaminess, incorporate Greek yogurt or mayo gradually to reach your preferred texture.
- Always taste your mixture and season with salt and pepper before serving to get the right balance.
Lastly, serving with fresh arugula not only makes it look appealing but adds a lightness to each bite. Enjoy your salad topped with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors even more!
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh arugula (for serving)
- 1 lemon wedge (for garnish and a fresh squeeze)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to chill it for a refreshing taste, add another 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Chicken and Pesto:
In a medium bowl, place the shredded cooked chicken. Add the basil pesto and mix well until the chicken is coated evenly. This will give your salad a burst of flavor!
2. Make it Creamy:
If you like your chicken salad creamy, add the plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Stir them in until everything is well blended for that perfect texture.
3. Fold in the Green Onions:
Add the finely chopped green onions into the mix. They add a nice crunch and flavor that complements the pesto.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the chicken salad mixture. Give it one last mix to combine everything nicely and taste to check if it needs more seasoning.
5. Prepare the Serving Plates:
On serving plates or in bowls, arrange a bed of fresh arugula. This will not only add color but also a fresh flavor to the dish!
6. Add the Chicken Salad:
Spoon the prepared pesto chicken salad generously over the arugula. Make it look nice and inviting!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by placing a lemon wedge on the side of each serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before eating brightens up the flavors beautifully.
8. Enjoy:
Serve the salad right away or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enjoy it cold. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as part of a refreshing meal!
Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make Pesto Chicken Salad!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred it, and you’re ready to go. This makes it a quick and convenient option!
What If I Don’t Have Basil Pesto?
No worries! You can use any other type of pesto, like sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto. Alternatively, you can blend fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) with olive oil, garlic, and nuts to create your own quick version.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the salad separate from the arugula until you’re ready to serve to maintain its freshness and texture.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just wait to add the arugula until serving time to keep it crisp and fresh!
