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creamy pesto chicken pasta salad recipe - Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

creamy pesto chicken pasta salad recipe made easy at home. A vibrant, creamy pasta salad with tender chicken, fresh mozzarella, and sun-kissed cherry tomatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz rotini pasta or any short pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless (about 2 breasts)
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise full-fat preferred
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
Mix-ins
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls bocconcini
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • to taste salt and black pepper

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook for 6-8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Let rest, then dice or shred.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and torn basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to meld flavors. Serve chilled, garnished with extra basil.