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Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Savory Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad for Quick Family Meals

Enjoy a quick and delicious Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad that's perfect for family meals in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta you can also use rotini or farfalle
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Basil torn
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion diced
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper freshly ground
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing
  • 1/3 cup Greek Yogurt thicker variety for richness
  • 1/4 cup Pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch chunks. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat and marinate for about 10 minutes.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Combine Italian dressing, Greek yogurt, and pesto in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, then set aside.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, sautéed chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Toss to mix.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then toss until well-coated. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving if chilled.

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