Looking for a fresh twist on your meal prep? This Basil Pesto Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy chicken salad recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how satisfying it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quickly poach chicken breasts.
- Basil Pesto: Store-bought works great, or you can make your own for extra freshness.
- Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, substitute with Greek yogurt.
- Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch. Bell peppers or cucumber can be used instead.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved, they add a burst of sweetness. Sundried tomatoes are a good substitute.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion (optional)
Spices & Seasonings:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on pesto/mayo choice)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Shred or dice your cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl. This is the foundation for your delicious healthy chicken salad recipe.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto and mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt). Make sure it’s well combined and smooth. This creates the creamy, flavorful dressing.
3. Mix Everything Together
Pour the pesto-mayo mixture over the chicken in the large bowl. Add the chopped celery, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using). Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Season and Serve
Season your Basil Pesto Chicken Salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final gentle stir. You can serve it immediately or chill it for later.
Variation Ideas
- Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts.
- Extra Herbs: Fold in fresh chopped basil or parsley for an even brighter flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Storage Instructions
You can store your Basil Pesto Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping your lunches for the week. Stir well before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you make this Basil Pesto Chicken Salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this healthy chicken salad recipe up to 1-2 days in advance for best flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?
A: You can use rotisserie chicken, poach chicken breasts, or bake them. Whatever is easiest for you works!
Q: Is this a good option for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This Basil Pesto Chicken Salad is an excellent healthy chicken salad recipe for meal prepping lunches.
Q: Can you add other vegetables?
A: Yes, feel free to add finely diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.
Q: What do you serve this chicken salad with?
A: You can serve it in lettuce wraps, on whole-grain bread, with crackers, or as a topping for a green salad.
Q: How do you make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Ensure your pesto is dairy-free (some contain cheese) and use a dairy-free mayonnaise substitute.