Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

Indulge in Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad, a delightful dish bursting with flavors.

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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients

For 1 person:

• 1 chicken breast
• 1 cup pasta
• 2 tbsp pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup black olives
• 1/4 cup mixed greens

For 3 people:

• 3 chicken breasts
• 3 cups pasta
• 6 tbsp pesto sauce
• 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes
• 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup black olives
• 3/4 cup mixed greens

Preparation

Time: 30 minutes

Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: Italian

Step by Step:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Grill or pan-sear chicken breasts until fully cooked.
3. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, black olives, and mixed greens.
5. Toss until well combined.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories per serving: 400

Carbs: 30g

Protein: 25g

Gluten content: Contains gluten

Pro Tip: Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

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How to Make It More Healthy

To make this recipe healthier, consider using whole grain pasta, lean chicken breast, and adding more vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach.

Origin Country of Recipe

The original recipe for Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is believed to have originated in Italy.

Best Time to Make It

This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for this recipe came from a love for creamy pesto sauce and the desire to create a delicious and satisfying pasta salad dish.

Best Way to Storage

Store any leftovers of Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold or reheat it gently in the microwave.

5 Things to Avoid While Making the Recipe

• Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy.
• Avoid using too much salt, as the pesto sauce already contains salt.
• Avoid adding too much mayonnaise, as it can make the dish too heavy.
• Avoid skimping on the pesto sauce, as it is the star of this dish.
• Avoid using pre-cooked or canned chicken, as fresh chicken will have a better texture.

How To Make It Gluten Free

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure all other ingredients, including the pesto sauce, are also gluten-free.

How To Make It Dairy Free

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free pesto sauce or make your own dairy-free pesto using nuts, olive oil, and fresh basil.

5 Common Questions with Answers

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving for the best taste and texture.

3. Is it okay to freeze this pasta salad?

It is not recommended to freeze Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing.

4. Can I use store-bought pesto sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto sauce for convenience, but homemade pesto will provide the freshest flavor.

5. How can I make this dish more spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pesto sauce to make the dish spicier to your taste.