Lunch / Mediterranean-inspired

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

A make-ahead pasta salad with chicken, tomatoes, greens, and pesto.

15 min prep 15 min cook 4 servings Easy
Pesto chicken pasta salad

Ingredients

Metric

  • 300 g pasta
  • 400 g chicken breast
  • 3 tbsp pesto
  • 250 g tomatoes
  • 100 g spinach
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

US

  • 10.5 oz pasta
  • 14 oz chicken breast
  • 3 tbsp pesto
  • 9 oz tomatoes
  • 3 cups spinach
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

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Method

  1. Cook pasta and cool it under cold water.
  2. Cook chicken until done and slice.
  3. Whisk pesto with lemon juice and oil.
  4. Toss pasta with dressing.
  5. Fold in tomatoes, spinach, and chicken.
  6. Taste and chill before serving.

Substitutions

Main ingredients

tuna, white beans, tofu

Cooking fat

olive oil, butter, neutral oil

Fresh finish

lemon, vinegar, fresh herbs

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate for up to 3 days; stir before serving.
  • Cool leftovers promptly and store them covered.
  • Reheat until piping hot before serving.

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes. It makes this a ten-minute assembly meal.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Prepare the cooked components ahead, then taste and refresh the seasoning before serving.