This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is the ultimate solution for refreshing summer lunches, potlucks, and Picnic Chicken Recipes. It combines tender chunks of chicken, smooth pesto dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta for a creamy, flavorful bite every time. Ideal for Cold Chicken Meals or when you need something hearty yet light, this dish uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s also a great way to use leftover chicken—perfect for those Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes that make meal prep a breeze. Whether at home or outdoors, this Chicken Penne Pasta Salad brings everyone together.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
A Memory Behind the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
It all started one warm Saturday afternoon when our family packed up for a lakeside picnic. The sun shimmered on the water, kids chased frisbees, and a big bowl of Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad sat chilling in the cooler. That first bite—creamy, fragrant, and satisfying—instantly became a family favorite. Every forkful was a mix of love, laughter, and shared stories. It was the kind of simple dish that turned ordinary gatherings into cherished memories. Through the years, this has become our go-to for Cold Chicken Meals that make summer dining easy and joyful.
When the weather warms up, few dishes hit the spot like a cool, creamy pasta salad. This Chicken Penne Pasta Salad is perfect for outdoor events, relaxed picnics, or even a quick weekday lunch straight from the fridge. It’s filling but not heavy, and it travels beautifully without losing flavor or texture. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it ahead, pack it in containers, and serve it anywhere. For families on the go, it’s a wholesome addition to your list of Cold Chicken Meals, offering a balance of protein, greens, and carbs in one refreshing bowl.
Making a Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is not just convenient; it’s a reminder that great meals can be simple, fresh, and full of heart. A chilled pasta salad like this makes any picnic spread more vibrant and every day a little easier.
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Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy chicken pesto pasta salad combines tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and al dente pasta for a refreshing cold meal perfect for picnics and quick lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Whisk together pesto, mayonnaise or greek yogurt, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes and greens.
4. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
5. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving and garnish with basil or extra parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: tossing
- Cuisine: italian-american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 18
- Cholesterol: 50
Keywords: creamy chicken pesto pasta salad, cold chicken meals, picnic chicken recipes, chicken penne pasta salad, healthy chicken pasta salad recipes, leftover chicken salad
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Gathering the Fresh Ingredients
This recipe is as straightforward as it is flavorful. You’ll start with fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together quickly and beautifully. It’s an excellent way to reinvent Leftover Chicken Salad into a refreshing new meal. Use the ingredient list below as a guide, adjusting the portions to suit your needs.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta (or short pasta) | 12 oz (about 4 cups cooked) | Al dente for best texture |
| Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced | 2 cups | Use leftover or rotisserie chicken |
| Pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought) | 1/2 cup | Basil or herb pesto for rich flavor |
| Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt | 1/3 cup | Greek yogurt for lighter Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup | Adds a salty, nutty layer |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup | For juicy pops of flavor |
| Baby spinach or arugula | 1 cup | Optional but adds freshness |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Adjust before serving |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightens the pesto flavor |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Adds smoothness and depth |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk pesto, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta, chicken, tomatoes, and greens to a large bowl. Pour the creamy pesto mix on top and fold gently until coated evenly.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend into that signature creamy texture of the Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to three days. If it thickens after chilling, refresh it with a small spoonful of pesto or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas
Healthy Twists and Variations for Every Taste
- Make It Lighter: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for more protein and zestier flavor—ideal for Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes.
- Go Gluten-Free or Whole Grain: Use pasta that fits your diet while maintaining the same great flavor.
- Use Rotisserie or Leftover Chicken: A time-saving way to turn Leftover Chicken Salad into something completely new.
- Add More Veggies: Roasted peppers, steamed broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes boost nutrition and color.
- Vegetarian or Dairy-Free: Replace chicken with chickpeas and Parmesan with plant-based cheese for a lighter version.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions for Every Occasion
This salad pairs beautifully with many sides and drinks, making it one of the most versatile Picnic Chicken Recipes out there. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, and everyday lunches.
| Occasion | Perfect Pairings | Serving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Family Picnic | Fruit skewers, sparkling lemonade, veggie sticks | Keep chilled in a cooler for freshness. |
| Lunch at Work | Whole-grain crackers, cucumber slices, iced green tea | Pack airtight and include utensils. |
| Outdoor BBQ | Grilled corn, watermelon salad, hibiscus tea | Serve family-style for easy sharing. |
| Potluck or Party | Garlic bread bites, garden salad, citrus water | Top with basil leaves and Parmesan before serving. |
| Weekday Meal Prep | Roasted veggies, fresh greens, mint iced tea | Store individual portions in sealed containers. |
Whether prepared for a picnic or weekly meal prep, this Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe never fails to impress. It’s cool, colorful, and endlessly adaptable, proving that simple food can be special any time of year.
FAQs and Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it last in the fridge? Stored properly, it will stay fresh for up to three days. Stir before serving and refresh with a spoonful of pesto if needed.
Can I make it ahead? Yes—this is one of those Cold Chicken Meals that gets even tastier after resting a few hours.
What chicken works best? Shredded grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all blend perfectly in this Chicken Penne Pasta Salad. Leftovers make it even easier.
Can it be frozen? Freezing isn’t recommended—the dressing can separate. For convenience, freeze only the cooked chicken and combine later.
Is it healthy? Definitely, especially when made with Greek yogurt and extra vegetables. It’s balanced in protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a great choice for Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes.
Bringing Comfort to Every Bite
This Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad combines ease, flavor, and freshness in every forkful. It’s perfect for Cold Chicken Meals during hot months or anytime you need a quick, wholesome dish to share. Versatile, make-ahead friendly, and endlessly customizable, it fits right into your favorite Picnic Chicken Recipes and weekday menus alike.
Most of all, it’s about connection—bringing loved ones together around feel-good food that’s made with care but without fuss. Serve it chilled, share it often, and let this creamy, herby salad turn any gathering into something memorable.
