Name: Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian‑American
Ingredients: 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, farfalle, etc.); 2 cups cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, chopped or shredded; ½ to ¾ cup basil pesto (store‑bought or homemade); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls or cubes (or cubed mozzarella); 2 cups fresh spinach or baby arugula (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional add‑ons: pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, thinly sliced red onion, cucumber slices

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Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is one of those dishes I keep on repeat all year long. It’s bright, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With tender chicken, pasta, and a vibrant pesto dressing, it’s the perfect balance of fresh and hearty. Whether I’m prepping lunch for the week, packing a picnic, or serving a light dinner, this pasta salad always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this salad is packed with flavor but takes very little time to prepare. The pesto gives it a bold, herby kick, while the chicken adds satisfying protein to keep me full. It’s great served cold or at room temperature, which makes it super versatile. I can make it ahead of time, customize it with whatever veggies I have on hand, and enjoy it as a complete meal or a side dish. 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 (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)
Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, chopped or shredded
Pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Mozzarella balls or cubes
Fresh spinach or arugula
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, red onion, or cucumber

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking.
In a large bowl, I combine the cooked pasta, chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
I stir in the pesto and a drizzle of olive oil, tossing until everything is evenly coated.
I fold in fresh spinach or arugula and season with salt and pepper to taste.
I chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, but it’s also great right away.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings and takes around 25 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick meal prep session or a last-minute dish for a gathering.

Variations

I use grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie, or leftover roasted chicken depending on what I have.
I add sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for more flavor.
For a dairy-free version, I skip the mozzarella and use dairy-free pesto.
I add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
I toss in some lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavor even more.

storage/reheating

I store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as it sits. I give it a good stir before serving, and sometimes add a little extra pesto or olive oil if it dries out slightly. I don’t reheat it — this salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making in advance. I usually prep it a few hours ahead or even the night before. It holds up really well in the fridge.

What type of pasta works best?

I like short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowties because they hold the pesto and mix-ins really well. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works great.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely. I often use good-quality jarred pesto when I’m short on time. If I make it homemade, I sometimes add extra garlic or lemon for brightness.

Is this served warm or cold?

It’s best served cold or at room temperature. That makes it great for picnics, potlucks, or packed lunches.

How can I make it vegetarian?

I just skip the chicken and bulk it up with extra veggies or white beans. It still tastes amazing and feels hearty.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that fits just about any occasion. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s one of those meals I love to make again and again — especially when I want something simple, satisfying, and totally delicious. Whether I’m eating it right away or pulling it from the fridge later, it’s a recipe that always hits the spot.