This Pesto Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty mix of chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy pesto. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a picnic treat!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together! I love making extra for the next day’s lunch. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use any cooked chicken, like shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or firm tofu can be great protein alternatives to keep the texture satisfying.
Basil Pesto: This is the star of the show for flavor! If fresh basil is hard to find, try store-bought pesto or even a sun-dried tomato pesto for a different twist. You can also make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives creaminess with a tangy flavor. You can swap it with regular yogurt or mayonnaise if you prefer. For a lighter option, try low-fat versions or dairy-free yogurt made from almond or coconut.
Chopped Celery: It adds crunch, but if you want something different, diced apples or cucumbers work well too! They add a refreshing taste and maintain the salad’s crispness.
Parmesan Cheese: The grated variety adds richness. If you’re lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding animal products.
How Do I Get the Best Flavors by Mixing Ingredients?
Mixing the ingredients properly is crucial to getting an evenly flavored salad. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Firstly, combine the chicken with pesto and yogurt in a large mixing bowl. Ensure every piece of chicken is coated. This is where the flavor base is built.
- Add the celery, Parmesan, and green onions next. Stir gently but thoroughly to incorporate everything evenly without breaking up the chicken too much.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Taste as you go. It’s important to adjust based on your preference.
- Finally, let the salad chill for about 30 minutes in the fridge. This waiting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes each bite even tastier!
How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Pine nuts for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Pesto Chicken Salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken:
Take a large mixing bowl and add your cooked chicken, either shredded or diced. This is the main ingredient, so make sure it’s ready to go!
2. Add the Creamy Ingredients:
Next, pour in the basil pesto along with the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise). Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until the chicken is well coated with this tasty mixture. It should be nice and creamy!
3. Mix in the Crunch:
Now, it’s time to add some crunch! Stir in the chopped celery, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped green onions. Continue mixing until all your ingredients are nicely combined. This adds great flavors and textures to your salad.
4. Season to Taste:
Grab some salt and pepper to season your salad. Sprinkle in a little bit at a time and taste as you go, so it’s just right for you!
5. Get Ready to Serve:
To serve, you can place the salad on a nice bed of greens or enjoy it inside a sandwich or wrap. If you like, garnish it with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle some pine nuts on top for a fun crunch and extra flavor!
6. Chill Out:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to meld together nicely.
Enjoy your refreshing Pesto Chicken Salad! It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this Pesto Chicken Salad. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and follow the recipe as usual. It adds great flavor and saves time!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use mayonnaise, sour cream, or even cottage cheese as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly. If you use mayonnaise, reduce the amount of pesto slightly to maintain the right balance of flavors.
How Long Can I Store This Salad in the Fridge?
You can store the Pesto Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur. If you notice any excess liquid, simply drain or mix it back in!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, swap the chicken for shredded chickpeas or a plant-based protein of your choice. Use a vegan pesto and substitute Greek yogurt with a vegan mayo or a non-dairy yogurt. This will keep the salad creamy and flavorful while meeting dietary preferences!
