This Pesto Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, fresh greens, and zesty pesto. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
If you love easy meals, this salad is a winner! Just toss everything in a bowl, and voilà! I like to pair it with some crunchy bread for a satisfying bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re short on time, leftover chicken or even canned chicken can work. Just make sure it’s drained and flaked well.
Basil Pesto: Traditional basil pesto gives great flavor. If you can’t find any, homemade is easy! Just blend basil, garlic, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), Parmesan, and olive oil. You can also try sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is a healthier option that adds creaminess and tang. If you prefer, use full-fat mayonnaise for a richer taste or a vegan mayo for a plant-based choice.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty flavor. If you need a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or pecorino cheese if you want a sharper flavor.
Celery and Green Onions: Celery adds crunch, but if you don’t have it, try chopped bell peppers or cucumbers. Green onions can be swapped for red onion or chives for a milder flavor.
How Do I Mix the Salad Without it Getting Mushy?
Getting the right mix without turning the chicken salad into mush is all about gentle mixing. Start by layering the dry ingredients first, like chicken and veggies, before adding the wet ones like pesto and yogurt. This helps keep everything coated nicely.
- Combine dry ingredients first in the bowl.
- Gently fold in the pesto and Greek yogurt with a spatula.
- Taste as you go and adjust seasoning last to avoid overmixing.
Remember, folding is key! Make sure to scoop from the bottom and lift the mixture up, so it stays fluffy and appealing.
How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions or scallions, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pesto chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick dish that you can enjoy right away, or you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for a tasty meal anytime. Perfect for lunch or as a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, take the shredded chicken and add in the basil pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped celery, sliced green onions, and the juice of one lemon. This mix is the heart of your salad!
2. Mix it Up:
Using a spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Make sure to give it a good stir so that the chicken is coated in the pesto mixture. Taste your salad, and if you feel it needs a bit more flavor, add some salt and pepper to suit your taste.
3. Serve on Greens:
Now it’s time to serve! Take your arugula or mixed greens and pile them onto individual plates. Spoon the pesto chicken salad generously on top of the greens. If you like, you can also garnish with lemon wedges and extra green onions for a nice touch!
4. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious and healthy pesto chicken salad! It’s fresh, flavorful, and full of protein. Enjoy it right away, or if you’re saving some for later, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! You can use sour cream, avocado, or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for a healthier or vegan alternative. Just keep in mind that each substitution may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the salad.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver! Just shred or dice the chicken from the rotisserie and add it directly to the salad. Make sure to remove any skin or bones beforehand.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the salad separate from the greens if possible, to prevent them from wilting. When ready to eat, mix the salad with fresh greens for the best texture!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely to ensure they’re evenly mixed in with the chicken salad.
