Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for gatherings. Tender pasta, juicy chicken, and the rich taste of sundried tomatoes get tossed together with bright, herby pesto for a simple, delicious salad. It’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser.

Course: dinner                           Cuisine: Italian

Prep Time: 5 minutes                Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes             Servings: 4

 Author: Premachi Recipe

Recipe Tools You Use:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes Recipe Video:

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz pasta
2. 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
3. 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
4. 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed and drained)
5. 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed (optional)
6. 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
7. 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
8. 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
9. Salt and pepper, to taste
10. Olive oil, as needed

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook it as directed on the package until it’s al dente. After that, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. Toss it with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together, then set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces. If grilling, season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, grill until fully cooked, then let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the pine nuts until golden brown, stirring often (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta and Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chicken. Add the sundried tomatoes and mozzarella cubes (if using).

Step 5: Add the Pesto

Toss the pasta mixture with the pesto sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated. If the salad appears a bit dry, try adding a drizzle of olive oil to make it more enjoyable.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Nuts

Fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts. These add a nutty, savory crunch to the dish.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Add salt and pepper to the salad according to your preference. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness.

Step 8: Serve or Chill

You can serve the salad right away at room temperature, or for best results, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This enables the flavors to blend harmoniously. Ensure to mix it thoroughly before serving.

Tips:

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for a vegetarian option.
• Add More Greens: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for added texture and freshness.
• Store-Bought or Homemade Pesto: If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto works great. But if you have the time, making homemade pesto really elevates the dish.
• Make Ahead: This salad is ideal for meal preparation. It keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days—just freshen it up with a little extra pesto or olive oil before serving.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes is a delicious, versatile dish that’s packed with bold flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or as a make-ahead lunch.

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes Nutrition Information:

Health Benefits of Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes:

1. Rich in Protein: Chicken provides a good amount of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and growth.
2. Healthy Fats: Pesto and olive oil are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, helping to improve cholesterol levels.
3. Antioxidants: Sundried tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, which supports skin health and reduces inflammation.
4. Bone Health: Parmesan and mozzarella provide calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
5. Energy Boost: Pasta offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day.
6. Digestive Health: The fiber from sundried tomatoes and pine nuts supports healthy digestion.
7. Immune Support: Basil and garlic in the pesto contain compounds that boost immunity and reduce inflammation.
8. Brain Health: Pine nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain function and cognitive health.
9. Iron-Rich: Chicken and sundried tomatoes both contain iron, which is essential for healthy blood and oxygen transport in the body.
10. Easy to Customize: You can easily add more greens like spinach or arugula, boosting the fiber and vitamin content.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir in a bit of extra pesto or olive oil to refresh the flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta and pesto may lose their texture and flavor upon thawing.

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes Reheat and Reuse Instructions:

• Reheat: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, heat it gently in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds on low power. Be cautious not to overheat, as the pesto and cheese may lose their texture.
• Reuse: Add some extra veggies (like roasted peppers or spinach) or fresh herbs to liven up leftovers. You can also serve it over a bed of greens or mix in chickpeas for a new twist. To freshen up the flavor, toss with a little extra olive oil or pesto just before serving.

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad with Sundried Tomatoes is a delicious, convenient dish that packs bold flavors and is easy to prepare ahead of time for busy days.

Gluten-free pasta options?

Here are some popular gluten-free pasta options you can try:

1. Rice Pasta: Made from white or brown rice, rice pasta has a mild flavor and a texture that’s closest to traditional wheat pasta. It’s great for dishes like spaghetti or penne and works well in both hot and cold recipes.
2. Corn Pasta: Corn-based pasta often has a bright yellow color and a slightly sweet taste. It holds up well in thicker sauces and is a popular option for gluten-free eaters who want a firmer texture.
3. Quinoa Pasta: Quinoa pasta is made from quinoa flour, often blended with other gluten-free grains. It’s higher in protein than some other gluten-free options and has a slightly nutty flavor, which pairs well with pesto or roasted vegetables.
4. Chickpea Pasta: Chickpea pasta is high in protein and fiber and has a dense, hearty texture. It’s great for holding onto thick sauces like marinara or Alfredo, and it’s also nutrient-dense, making it a healthy alternative.
5. Lentil Pasta: Made from red or green lentils, this pasta is packed with protein and fiber, giving it a hearty and slightly earthy flavor. It works well in recipes that call for stronger sauces or more robust ingredients.
6. Zucchini or Vegetable Noodles: For a lighter, low-carb option, spiralized vegetables like zucchini (zoodles), carrots, or sweet potatoes can serve as a great gluten-free pasta alternative. These “noodles” are perfect for pairing with light sauces or pesto.
7. Soba Noodles (100% Buckwheat): If you’re making an Asian-inspired dish, 100% buckwheat soba noodles are naturally gluten-free. Be careful, though—some brands mix buckwheat with wheat flour, so make sure to check the label for “100% buckwheat” if you need a fully gluten-free option.

Each of these pasta options offers a unique texture and flavor, so it’s worth trying a few to see which one you like best.

FAQ’s

You may also like…

1. Mexican Stuffed Shells
2. Mexican Orzo Salad
3. Garlic Salmon Linguine
4. Chicken Basil Pesto Pasta
5. Chicken Parmesan Pasta