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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad in a white bowl with fresh basil.

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

A high-protein, easy-to-make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad featuring fresh mozzarella, spinach, and a tangy basil pesto dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta any shape like rotini or farfalle
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2-3 thinly-sliced chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1.5 cups cherry or grape tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or pieces
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet or grill
  • large bowl

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil, add a generous pinch of salt, and cook pasta just to al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken lightly with garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Grill or cook in a lightly-oiled skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large bowl, stir together the pesto and red wine vinegar.
  4. Add drained pasta, cut chicken, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, baby spinach, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
  5. Toss well to combine, sample, and add more salt and pepper to taste. Serve right away or refrigerate.

Notes

Store in a tightly-sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If the salad is dry after storing, add a splash of water or extra pesto.
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