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Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

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This easy chicken pesto pasta salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for quick lunches, dinners, or meal prep. Tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a flavorful pesto dressing are tossed with mozzarella and veggies for a satisfying meal served warm or cold.

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)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
  3. Add pesto and toss until everything is evenly coated. Drizzle in olive oil if needed to loosen the pesto.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Mix in spinach or arugula if using.
  6. Garnish with grated parmesan before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Add roasted red peppers, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Swap chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for variety.
  • Best served chilled or at room temp—no reheating required.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; add more pesto or olive oil if it dries out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/easy-chicken-pesto-pasta-salad/