This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty way to enjoy lunch! It’s made with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy pesto, all mixed together for a burst of flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own. Any leftover chicken works great too! You can use canned chicken in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Pesto Sauce: If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto is a lifesaver. For a lighter version, try using a homemade pesto made with spinach or arugula instead of basil.
Mayonnaise: Add creaminess with mayo, but you can swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. I love the tang it brings!
Celery: Celery adds crunch, but you could also use chopped bell peppers or cucumbers if you prefer something different.
Parmesan Cheese: While fresh grated Parmesan is the go-to for flavor, you could use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Salad From Being Dry?
The secret to a moist chicken salad lies in the right balance of ingredients! Here’s how to ensure it stays creamy and delicious.
- Mix the pesto and mayo well until smooth before adding to the chicken, so it coats evenly.
- Don’t skimp on the pesto! It adds moisture and flavor.
- Adjust the mayo based on how creamy you like it – you can add more if needed.
- Letting it sit briefly before serving helps the flavors meld and keeps everything nice and moist.
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Pesto Chicken Salad will take you about 15-20 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect quick lunch. No cooking required—just mix and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken. Then, toss in the finely diced celery and grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the pesto sauce and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy dressing for your salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the pesto-mayo mixture over the chicken and celery blend. Gently toss everything together until all the chicken is coated with the creamy dressing. Ensure it’s mixed evenly for great flavor.
4. Season Your Salad:
Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Mix it all up again to incorporate the seasonings.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the chicken salad into a serving bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like.
6. Enjoy Your Salad:
Serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, over a bed of greens, or in a sandwich!
Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make pesto chicken salad for a delicious lunch!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Can I Use Store-Bought Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop it, and you’re ready to go!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free version and leave out the Parmesan cheese, or swap it for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This chicken salad is delicious served on its own, but it’s also great over a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or even stuffed in a pita. Pair it with some fresh veggies or your favorite chips for a complete meal!
