Go Back

Pesto Chicken Salad

If you’re a fan of vibrant, herbaceous flavors and crave a healthy, satisfying meal, the Pesto Chicken Salad is here to delight your taste buds. This dish combines tender chicken coated in fresh basil pesto, crisp vegetables, and creamy cheese, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
257
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Salad
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad:
  • 2 cups mixed greens baby spinach, arugula, or lettuce 🥬
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed 🍗
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil pesto 🌿
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved 🍅
  • 1/4 cup cucumber thinly sliced 🥒
  • 1/4 cup mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta cheese 🧀
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts toasted (optional) 🌰
  • For the Dressing Optional:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 🍋
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂

Instructions
 

  • 1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:
  • Cook the chicken breast if not already done, by grilling or pan-searing with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooled, shred or cube the chicken. Toss it with the basil pesto until fully coated.
  • 2️⃣ Toast the Pine Nuts:
  • In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  • 3️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables:
  • Wash and dry the mixed greens. Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the cucumber.
  • 4️⃣ Assemble the Salad:
  • In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base. Add the pesto-coated chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta.
  • 5️⃣ Make the Dressing (Optional):
  • Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle over the salad if desired.
  • 6️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
  • Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top for added crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, fresh dish! 🥗
Keyword Pesto Chicken Salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!