Name: Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle); 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, chopped or shredded; 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup shredded or cubed mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella balls); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or arugula; Optional: 2 tbsp grated parmesan; Optional: 2 tbsp pine nuts

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Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or a quick dinner. It combines tender chunks of chicken with al dente pasta, vibrant pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a touch of cheese for a simple salad that I can serve warm, cold, or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and versatile this recipe is—it’s ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for using up leftover chicken or pasta. The pesto adds a rich, herby flavor that coats everything beautifully, while the fresh tomatoes bring brightness and balance. It’s great for meal prep, and I can enjoy it as a main dish or a side. Plus, it’s easy to customize with what I have in my kitchen. Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked pasta (like rotini, penne, or farfalle)
Cooked chicken breast or thighs, chopped or shredded
Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Shredded or cubed mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella balls)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Optional: baby spinach or arugula, grated parmesan, pine nuts

Directions

I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
In a large bowl, I toss the cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
I add the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella to the bowl.
I stir in the pesto until everything is evenly coated. If it’s too thick, I add a splash of olive oil or warm water to loosen it up.
I season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently fold in any extras like spinach, arugula, or parmesan.
I chill the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving if I want it cold, or serve it immediately at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 25 minutes total, including prep and assembly. It’s a great make-ahead dish for lunches, gatherings, or light dinners.

Variations

Sometimes I use grilled chicken for added smoky flavor, or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If I’m in the mood for extra crunch, I add diced cucumbers or red bell peppers. I’ve also swapped mozzarella for feta or goat cheese, and used sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works great in this dish.

Storage/Reheating

I store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I give it a quick stir before serving, and if it’s a little dry, I add a touch more pesto or olive oil. I usually enjoy it cold, but it can be gently warmed if I prefer it that way. Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, I often use store-bought pesto for convenience, but homemade works great too if I have fresh basil on hand.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?

I like using short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle because they hold the pesto well and are easy to eat cold.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and make sure the pesto I use doesn’t contain parmesan.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Definitely. I make a batch at the start of the week and portion it out for easy lunches. It holds up well in the fridge.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

I usually add a bit more olive oil or pesto before serving if it seems dry. A squeeze of lemon also helps refresh the flavor.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is one of my favorite quick meals—it’s fresh, flexible, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m making it for a picnic, a potluck, or just a light dinner at home, it always turns out delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe I make on repeat all year long.