Name: Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli); 2 cups cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped; 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella; 1–2 cups baby spinach or arugula (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, to loosen pesto); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Grated parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This easy chicken pesto pasta salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that I love making for lunch, dinner, or any time I need a quick meal. Tender pasta is tossed with juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and colorful veggies for a satisfying combination that’s perfect served warm or cold. It’s the kind of dish that works equally well for meal prep or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this pasta salad because it’s incredibly versatile and packed with bold flavor from the pesto. It’s a one-bowl wonder that comes together fast, especially if I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Whether I’m heading to a picnic, prepping weekday lunches, or just want something light but filling, this salad always delivers. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and gets better as it sits.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli work great)
cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
pesto (store-bought or homemade)
cherry tomatoes, halved
mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
baby spinach or arugula (optional)
olive oil (optional, to loosen the pesto)
salt and black pepper
grated parmesan (for garnish, optional)

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking.
In a large bowl, I combine the pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
I stir in the pesto and toss everything until evenly coated. If the pesto is too thick, I add a drizzle of olive oil to loosen it up.
I season with salt and pepper to taste.
I mix in spinach or arugula if I’m using greens, then top with a sprinkle of parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes (for pasta)
Total time: about 20–25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add roasted red peppers, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, I swap the mozzarella for feta and toss in some cucumbers. I’ve also used whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, and it works just as well. For a vegetarian version, I skip the chicken and add chickpeas or grilled zucchini.

storage/reheating

This salad stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. I give it a quick stir before serving, and if it seems dry, I just add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful more pesto. It’s best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. The flavors actually improve as it sits in the fridge.

What kind of pesto works best?

Basil pesto is classic, but I’ve also used arugula or spinach pesto with great results. Homemade or store-bought both work well.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. Grilled shrimp, leftover steak, or even crispy tofu all make great swaps for the chicken.

Is this dish good for picnics or potlucks?

Yes, it travels well and doesn’t need to be kept piping hot. I just keep it chilled until ready to serve.

What pasta shape should I use?

I prefer short, ridged pasta like rotini or penne—they hold onto the pesto better and make it easier to eat as a salad.

Conclusion

This easy chicken pesto pasta salad is one of those meals I can turn to again and again. It’s fresh, filling, and bursting with flavor, whether I serve it straight from the fridge or slightly warmed. With minimal prep and maximum flexibility, it’s the kind of dish that makes both everyday meals and special gatherings feel effortless.