This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of shredded chicken, fresh pesto, and crunchy veggies. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or a quick dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or any leftover chicken. Shredded or diced, it works great here. If you’re vegetarian, consider chickpeas or canned jackfruit as a meat alternative.
Basil Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds tons of flavor, but you can easily swap it for sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spinach pesto if you prefer something different. Testing out various pestos can lead to some fun flavors!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo gives a creamy finish, but for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt. It’s nutritious and adds a nice tang. Vegan mayo works too if you want a plant-based version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated works if you’re in a pinch. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Mix Everything Together Without Making a Mess?
Mixing without creating a mess is simple if you follow these tips! Use a large bowl to give yourself space to work. Gently fold the ingredients instead of stirring aggressively. This keeps the chicken intact and helps everything blend without splattering.
- Start with the chicken and celery in the bowl.
- Add the pesto mixture gradually as you fold in the chicken to minimize spills.
- Use a spatula for gentle turning motions, like folding a cake batter.
By keeping it easy and gentle, your salad will stay neat and delicious!
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and simple dish that’s perfect for a speedy lunch or a light dinner. No lengthy cooking needed—just a little chopping and mixing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken with the diced celery and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will give you a delicious base for your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the basil pesto and mayonnaise until they are smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will add fantastic flavor to your salad.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the pesto-mayo mixture over the chicken mixture. Stir everything together gently until the chicken and celery are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix to keep the chicken chunks intact!
4. Season to Taste:
Add garlic powder (if using), along with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the seasoning throughout. Don’t hesitate to taste it and adjust the seasoning if you like!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the chicken salad with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor and a lovely presentation. You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature, either on its own or in a sandwich or wrap for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your Easy Pesto Chicken Salad! It’s quick, tasty, and sure to become a favorite!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any remnants from your previous meals work perfectly. Just shred or dice it to your preferred size and follow the recipe as usual!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
You can store this Easy Pesto Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to remix the ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a creamier texture with added protein. You can also use avocado for a healthy swap that adds creaminess and flavor.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, use shredded jackfruit or chickpeas in place of chicken, substitute vegan mayonnaise for regular mayo, and skip or use a vegan cheese alternative instead of Parmesan.
