This Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty pesto. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
I love how easy this salad is to throw together. I just shred the chicken, mix in the pesto and veggies, and voila! Dinnertime is served with a smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded or chopped cooked chicken is the star here. Rotisserie chicken is super convenient if you’re short on time. You can also use leftover chicken or turkey from another meal!
Pesto: Store-bought pesto is handy, but homemade is fresh and flavorful. If you’re out of basil, try using spinach or arugula for a different spin. Nut-free pesto can be made with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead of pine nuts.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter version, stick with it. Otherwise, mayonnaise works great for a richer taste. You can also use avocado for a healthier fat option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino or a dairy-free cheese can work too.
Arugula or Mixed Greens: Arugula gives a peppery kick, but you can swap it for spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you prefer. Each one adds its own unique flavor and texture.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad Has the Right Flavor and Texture?
Getting the right balance in your chicken salad is key! Start by evenly combining the pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayo), and chicken. This helps ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Mix the wet ingredients first before adding the chicken. This prevents clumping.
- When adding lemon juice, start with half and taste before adding more. You can always add, but you can’t take away.
- For crunch, finely chop celery and green onions. A finer chop will spread the texture throughout the salad.
Lastly, remember that letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together better. Enjoy your fresh and zesty meal!
How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions (scallions), sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away, or keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days for later enjoyment. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken. Then, mix in the pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined as you stir everything together.
2. Season It Up:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the mixture to add freshness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good stir to ensure that all the flavors mix in nicely. Don’t forget to take a little taste and adjust the seasoning if you need to.
3. Serve it Up:
To serve, lay down a bed of arugula or mixed greens on your plates or in a large serving bowl. Spoon the pesto chicken salad generously on top of the greens. Finally, garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese if you like a bit more cheesy goodness.
Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Pesto Chicken Salad fresh, or store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken from the rotisserie and mix it directly with the rest of the ingredients. It’s flavorful and will make your salad even easier to prepare!
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise for a Dairy-Free Option?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, you can use a plant-based yogurt or mayonnaise. Just check the labels to ensure they do not contain any dairy ingredients. It’ll still be creamy and delicious!
How Should I Store Any Leftover Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the greens separate if you plan to store leftovers to maintain their crispness. Just mix them together before serving.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Salad?
You can definitely customize this salad! Consider adding diced bell peppers, cucumber, or even sliced avocado for extra freshness and variety. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning if you add more ingredients!
