Delicious Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad: Your Ultimate Summer Recipe Guide
This pesto chicken pasta salad is the epitome of fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly easy cooking. It masterfully blends tender, juicy chicken with creamy mozzarella pearls, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a hint of peppery arugula, all generously coated in a rich, aromatic basil pesto. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a versatile culinary delight perfect for everything from light summer main courses to impressive potluck contributions and essential meal prep lunches. Get ready to elevate your summer dining with this unforgettable pasta salad!
Table of Contents
Toggle
About This Fresh Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
This pesto chicken pasta salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer flavors, designed to be both hearty and refreshingly light. Imagine tender cavatappi pasta, perfectly cooked al dente, forming the base of a vibrant medley. It’s tossed with succulent pieces of juicy chicken, creamy, delicate mozzarella pearls, peppery notes from fresh arugula, and bursts of sweetness from ripe cherry tomatoes. Every single ingredient is harmoniously coated in a rich, aromatic basil pesto, ensuring an explosion of flavor in every bite.
This pesto pasta salad is truly a go-to recipe for any occasion. It’s incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping lunches throughout the week, a delightful addition to a leisurely picnic in the park, or the ultimate flavorful side dish for your next BBQ gathering. Its fresh ingredients and vibrant appearance make it a crowd-pleaser that always impresses.
The inspiration for this easy pesto chicken pasta salad recipe sprang from a common weeknight dilemma: what to make for a quick yet satisfying dinner. I had some leftover grilled chicken and a jar of my homemade pistachio pesto (a secret weapon that truly elevates this dish!) ready in the fridge. Knowing my deep affection for pasta salads, the solution was clear. A quick toss with pasta, mozzarella, and a generous handful of fresh basil from my garden transformed simple ingredients into a new summer staple that I couldn’t wait to share.
The real magic in this recipe undeniably lies in the pesto. While a good quality store-bought pesto can certainly work wonders in a pinch, taking the extra time to make it from scratch (especially my pistachio pesto!) is an effort well worth it. The fresh basil and high-quality olive oil infuse each piece of pasta with an incredible herby richness, while the mozzarella adds a delightful creaminess. The crisp arugula and sweet tomatoes then balance everything out, keeping the dish feeling light, fresh, and utterly irresistible.
Beyond its incredible taste, this pesto chicken pasta salad is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with different proteins; swap the chicken for succulent boiled shrimp, tender grilled salmon, or even chickpeas for a fantastic vegetarian spin. You can also incorporate any leftover summer vegetables you might have on hand – grilled zucchini slices or roasted bell peppers, for instance, would integrate beautifully, adding more color, texture, and nutrients to this already perfect dish.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
This pesto chicken pasta salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to simple, delicious cooking. It perfectly combines all the satisfying flavors and varied textures you crave, with a wonderfully lighter feel that makes it absolutely ideal for any summer occasion. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:
- Effortlessly Quick: You can whip this salad together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Perfectly Balanced: It’s hearty enough to serve as a satisfying main dish for dinner, yet light enough to be a refreshing side for a BBQ or picnic.
- Wholesome Goodness: Crafted with fresh, high-quality, and wholesome ingredients, ensuring a delicious and nutritious meal every time.
- Fantastic for Meal Prep: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent candidate for making ahead and enjoying as easy lunches throughout the week.
- Naturally Flavorful: The combination of basil pesto, ripe tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella creates a burst of natural flavors that require minimal seasoning.
- Highly Adaptable: Easily customize it to fit various dietary needs or preferences, whether you want to make it dairy-free, vegetarian, or simply incorporate different seasonal vegetables.
- Simple Customization: Swap out chicken for shrimp, add chickpeas for a plant-based option, or toss in your favorite seasonal veggies like grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers for an endless array of delicious variations.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Crafting the perfect pesto chicken pasta salad begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that balance of flavors and textures that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Cooked Chicken: You’ll need about 2 cups of diced cooked chicken. This is a fantastic way to use up leftovers! Whether it’s grilled, roasted, or even a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken, ensure it’s cooled and diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
- Cavatappi Pasta: The corkscrew shape of cavatappi is ideal as it beautifully traps the pesto sauce. If you don’t have cavatappi, feel free to substitute with another short, sturdy pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or rotini. The key is a shape that holds the sauce well.
- Fresh Mozzarella Pearls: These small, creamy balls of fresh mozzarella add a wonderful soft texture and mild, milky flavor. They melt slightly into the warmth of the pasta (if served warm) and provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients. Mini mozzarella balls, also known as bocconcini, can be used if pearls aren’t available.
- Arugula: This vibrant green adds a delightful peppery kick that cuts through the richness of the pesto and mozzarella. Its slight bitterness complements the sweet tomatoes beautifully. If arugula isn’t your favorite, fresh spinach leaves or baby kale make good, milder alternatives.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry or grape tomatoes burst with sweet and juicy flavor, providing a crucial fresh element to the salad. For an extra pop of color and varied sweetness, consider using a mix of heirloom cherry tomatoes.
- Red Onion: A small amount of finely diced red onion adds a subtle sharpness and a beautiful purple hue. It provides a crisp texture and a gentle bite that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain, or omit it entirely if you’re not a fan.
- Pesto: The heart of this dish! You can use your favorite high-quality store-bought basil pesto for convenience. However, for an unparalleled depth of flavor, I highly recommend trying a homemade version. My pistachio pesto recipe offers a unique, nutty twist that takes this salad to the next level.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese is mixed into the salad to enhance its savory notes and add a touch of salty umami. Reserve some extra for a final garnish, adding both flavor and an appealing finish.
- Fresh Basil: Beyond the pesto, fresh basil leaves (chopped) are essential for bright, aromatic flavor. Its sweet, fragrant notes tie all the ingredients together. Always save a few whole leaves or a chiffonade for garnish right before serving to boost its fresh appeal.
Essential Tools for This Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
While this pesto chicken pasta salad is incredibly easy to make, having the right kitchen tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. These aren’t just gadgets; they’re investments in efficient and effective cooking.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious, sturdy mixing bowl is crucial. It provides ample room to toss all the ingredients together thoroughly without spillage, ensuring every piece of pasta and chicken is evenly coated with that delicious pesto.
- Salad Serving Utensils or Tongs: To mix and serve your salad with care, a good pair of salad tongs or dedicated serving utensils are indispensable. They allow for gentle handling, preventing delicate ingredients like arugula from bruising and keeping the pasta intact.
- Colander: A reliable colander makes draining and rinsing your pasta a breeze. The cold rinse is vital for stopping the cooking process and ensuring your pasta salad remains cool and prevents clumping.
Did you know? You can use homemade pesto sauce in this recipe for even bigger flavor! My pistachio pesto is an easy way to level up your pasta salad and give it a nutty, slightly sweet twist that will truly impress.
How to Make This Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Making this delightful pesto chicken pasta salad is straightforward and quick, perfect for getting a delicious meal on the table with minimal fuss. Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying result:
Step 1: Cook and Cool Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook it precisely according to the package directions, aiming for an al dente texture. This ensures the pasta retains a pleasant chewiness and doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the salad. Once cooked, immediately drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly with cold water. This crucial step stops the cooking process, cools the pasta quickly, and prevents it from clumping together, which is essential for a good pasta salad texture.
Step 2: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
While your pasta is cooking and cooling, use this time to prepare the rest of your fresh components. Dice your cooked chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, which allows their sweet juices to mingle with the pesto. Lastly, finely chop your fresh basil, setting aside a few leaves for garnish. This efficient multi-tasking helps bring your delicious pesto chicken pasta salad together even faster.
Step 3: Gently Toss All Ingredients Together
In your large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and the diced chicken. Next, add in the creamy mozzarella pearls, the vibrant arugula, the halved cherry tomatoes, and the finely diced red onion. Dollop a generous amount of your prepared pesto over everything, then sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and the chopped fresh basil. Using salad serving utensils or tongs, gently mix all the ingredients. The goal is to evenly coat everything with the pesto without crushing the delicate arugula or breaking up the mozzarella pearls.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve for Ultimate Flavor
Once thoroughly mixed, your pesto chicken pasta salad is almost ready! If you plan to serve it immediately, arrange it beautifully in a serving dish and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These final touches not only add visual appeal but also enhance the aromatic freshness of the dish. It can be served immediately at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing twist.
Tips for a Perfect Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Achieving a truly exceptional pesto chicken pasta salad is all about the details. Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure your salad is always a hit:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Cook your pasta just until it’s al dente – firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become soft and mushy when tossed with the other ingredients and will not hold its shape or texture in the cold salad.
- Rinse Pasta Thoroughly with Cold Water: After draining, immediately rinse the cooked pasta under cold running water. This quickly stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing the pasta from sticking together and keeping your salad wonderfully cool and fresh.
- Add Arugula Just Before Serving: Arugula is delicate and can wilt quickly. To maintain its crisp, peppery freshness, stir it into the pasta salad right before you plan to serve it. This is especially important if you’re making the salad ahead of time for meal prep; add arugula to individual portions only when you’re ready to eat.
- Refresh with Extra Pesto or Olive Oil: Pasta tends to absorb sauce as it sits, especially in the refrigerator. If your salad seems a bit dry after chilling, simply stir in an extra spoonful of pesto or a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil to revive its moisture and flavor.
- Brighten with Fresh Lemon Juice: For a delightful pop of citrusy brightness, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the salad just before serving. The acidity of the lemon will enhance all the other flavors and add an extra layer of freshness.
- Season Thoughtfully: Taste your salad after mixing and adjust seasonings as needed. Pesto can be salty, and parmesan adds flavor, but a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper might be needed to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
Creative Variations for Your Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
One of the best things about this pesto chicken pasta salad is its incredible flexibility. Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Protein Swaps:
- For a seafood twist, replace the chicken with perfectly cooked shrimp, flakes of grilled or baked salmon, or even canned tuna.
- Make it a hearty vegetarian meal by swapping chicken for chickpeas, cannellini beans, or grilled halloumi cheese.
- Dairy-Free Option: Easily adapt for dairy-free diets by using a dairy-free pesto (ensure it doesn’t contain Parmesan) and omitting the mozzarella pearls. You can add avocado for creaminess instead.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrient content and color by tossing in other grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or even blanched green beans. Olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts also make excellent additions.
- Pasta Alternatives: If cavatappi isn’t available, or you simply prefer another shape, penne, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), fusilli, or even orecchiette work wonderfully to catch the pesto. Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Pesto Power-Up: While basil pesto is classic, experiment with other pestos! Arugula pesto for an extra peppery bite, sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer, sweeter flavor, or even a spinach and walnut pesto can all create unique and delicious results.
- Herb Enhancements: Beyond basil, fresh parsley or a sprinkle of oregano can add additional depth to the flavor profile.
Looking for more delicious pasta salad ideas? Check out these favorites: Summer Lemon Pasta Salad | Crunchy Thai Noodle Salad | Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad | Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Absolutely! This pesto chicken pasta salad is an ideal candidate for making ahead, which often allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the freshest texture and flavor, it’s best to add the delicate arugula and an extra drizzle of pesto (or olive oil) just before you’re ready to serve.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility with chicken! You can use any cooked chicken you have readily available. This includes leftover grilled chicken, roasted chicken, poached chicken, or even the convenience of a store-bought rotisserie chicken. The most important thing is to ensure it’s cooled and diced into uniform, bite-sized pieces before you toss it into the salad to ensure even distribution and pleasant texture.
Yes, absolutely! To make this a delicious vegetarian pesto pasta salad, simply omit the chicken. You can substitute it with other protein-rich ingredients like canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained), white beans, or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. Adding some crumbled feta cheese or marinated artichoke hearts can also provide additional flavor and texture.
While a classic basil pesto is always a fantastic choice and keeps things traditional, you have plenty of options! You can use your favorite high-quality store-bought brand for convenience, or for an elevated flavor profile, try making homemade pesto (like my pistachio pesto for a unique nutty twist). Arugula pesto will add a peppery kick, or sun-dried tomato pesto can offer a richer, sweeter depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you love!
I generally do not recommend freezing this pasta salad. The fresh vegetables, particularly the cherry tomatoes and arugula, and the creamy mozzarella pearls, do not thaw well. Freezing can cause them to become watery, mushy, and lose their appealing texture. This pesto chicken pasta salad is definitely best enjoyed fresh within a few days of preparation.
Need inspiration for dinner this week? Check out my dinner recipes page for more delicious ideas!
What to Serve with Your Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
This versatile pesto chicken pasta salad is incredibly satisfying on its own, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner. However, it also shines beautifully as a vibrant side dish. If I’m serving it alongside a main course, I sometimes choose to omit the chicken from the salad itself to keep it lighter. Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your pesto chicken pasta salad:
- Crusty Bread or Focaccia: A warm, crusty baguette or a flavorful focaccia is ideal for soaking up any extra pesto and enjoying the rich flavors of the salad.
- Grilled Meats: This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of grilled dishes. Serve it alongside a perfectly cooked whole grilled chicken, a succulent grilled New York strip steak, or even a light grilled fish like salmon or cod at your summer gatherings.
- Light Lunches: For a refreshing lunch, serve the pesto chicken pasta salad as a substantial side with wraps, sandwiches, or paninis. Its vibrant flavors will brighten up any midday meal.
- Soup: During cooler months, or for a heartier meal, a light vegetable soup or a simple minestrone can be a delightful accompaniment.
- Fresh Green Salad: If you want to add even more greens, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would be a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the vegetable component by serving it with additional roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes.
💬 Behind the Recipe: My Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad Journey
Every great recipe has a story, and this pesto chicken pasta salad is no exception. It was born one lazy summer evening when I found myself with a happy problem: abundant leftovers. I had a generous amount of beautifully grilled chicken and a freshly made batch of my signature homemade pistachio pesto tucked away in the fridge. The idea sparked immediately – why not combine these flavorful components with pasta and a few fresh additions for a quick, satisfying dinner?
I tossed everything together with some al dente pasta, creamy mozzarella pearls, and a handful of aromatic basil from my garden. The result was an instant hit – so unexpectedly delicious and effortlessly simple that I knew it couldn’t remain a one-time creation. It absolutely deserved a permanent place on Cake ‘n Knife.
Since that initial spontaneous creation, I’ve meticulously tested and refined this recipe multiple times. I’ve experimented with various proteins, explored different types of pesto, and even tried out an array of pasta shapes. Through all the iterations, this specific version consistently emerged as the clear winner. It embodies everything I love about summer cooking: fresh, flavorful, and easy. It has become one of those reliable, flavor-packed summer staples that I enthusiastically recommend to everyone, confident it will bring joy to your table too.
How to Store Your Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Proper storage is key to enjoying your pesto chicken pasta salad for days after preparing it. To keep it fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Transfer any leftover pesto chicken pasta salad into an airtight container. Store it promptly in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days.
- Reviving Flavors: As pasta salads sit, the pasta tends to absorb the dressing, which can make the salad seem a bit dry. Before serving leftovers, stir in a little extra pesto or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This will refresh the flavors and bring back the desired moisture. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a delightful brightness.
- Serving Temperature: This salad is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed straight from the fridge (cold) or allowed to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Both temperatures offer a delightful eating experience, so choose what you prefer!
More of Our Favorite Light Meals & Summer Recipes
If you loved this pesto chicken pasta salad, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our delicious and easy light meal options, perfect for warm weather or any time you crave something fresh:
- This chicken caesar pasta salad ingeniously combines all the classic, beloved elements of your favorite Caesar salad, but with a satisfying and delightful pasta twist!
- Our juicy mango chicken salad is the ultimate tropical-inspired meal prep chicken salad, bursting with refreshing flavors perfect for summer.
- You’ll absolutely love the exciting heat packed into this vibrant southwest chicken salad, especially when it’s served with our irresistible homemade chipotle ranch dressing.
- Explore more salad recipes for endless inspiration!
Unlock More Seasonal Delights with Our Everyday Seasonal Cookbook
Elevate your cooking all year round! With comprehensive seasonal produce guides, a wealth of inspiring recipes for every occasion, and so much more, this essential cookbook is absolutely brimming with seasonal food ideas that will transform your kitchen experience.
Finally, if you fall in love with this pesto chicken pasta salad recipe as much as we do, please be sure to show your appreciation by giving this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leaving a comment! Your feedback means the world to us – we absolutely love hearing when you all make our recipes, and we genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. We cherish your thoughts and experiences!
Feel free to drop any questions you have in the comments section below too; we’re always here to help!
Oh, and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It truly brings us so much joy to see these recipes come to life in your homes – looking through your photos is one of our favorite things to do. It truly means the world to us!
Want to be the first to know when we release a new recipe, get exclusive content, or hear the latest news from our kitchen? Sign up for our newsletter to get them delivered straight to your inbox!
This delightful recipe yields approximately 8 servings when enjoyed as a side dish, or 4 to 6 generous servings if served as a satisfying main course. Adjust quantities as needed to fit your gathering!
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
Equipment
-
Large Mixing Bowls
-
Covered Stockpot
-
Salad Serving Utensils or Tongs
-
Colander
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken*
- 6 oz cavatappi pasta or other short pasta like penne, fusilli or rotini
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or mini mozzarella balls
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 6 oz cherry tomatoes halved (red or heirloom for extra color)
- 1/3 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup prepared pesto of your choice we highly recommend homemade pistachio pesto!
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook it according to the directions on the package until al dente. Once cooked, immediately drain and rinse with cold water to cool quickly and prevent sticking.
-
While the pasta is cooking and cooling, prepare all of your other ingredients: dice the cooked chicken, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh basil (reserving some for garnish).
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, cooled pasta and the diced chicken. Add the mozzarella pearls, arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, prepared pesto, shredded Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix gently with salad tongs or large spoons to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated without bruising the arugula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Garnish your vibrant salad with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if serving right away. This salad can be served immediately at room temperature or chilled for later enjoyment.
Video
Notes
Store any leftovers of this delicious pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, you might want to stir in a little extra pesto or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to refresh the flavors and moisture.
Nutrition Information (Estimated)