Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
This pesto chicken pasta salad is a fresh, high-protein summer dish you will make on repeat. Short pasta gets tossed in basil pesto and Parmesan, then mixed with juicy chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, red onion, creamy avocado and peppery arugula. This chicken pesto pasta salad comes together in about 25 minutes.
It is perfect for meal prep lunches, picnics and easy dinners. For another pasta salad favorite, try my Chili Crisp Chicken Pasta Salad.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
- High protein with chicken and mozzarella.
- Only 11 ingredients and no cooking beyond the pasta.
- Fresh and vibrant with avocado, arugula and tomatoes.
- Great for meal prep and picnics.
Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
The Pasta and Pesto
Your favorite short pasta, basil pesto and shredded Parmesan.
The Mix-Ins
Cooked chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, diced red onion, ripe avocado and fresh arugula.
The Seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste.
Swap note: Use gluten-free pasta for gluten free. Most pesto contains Parmesan, so check the label if you need it vegetarian or nut free.
How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Coat with pesto
Toss the pasta with the basil pesto and Parmesan until evenly coated.
Step 3: Add the mix-ins
Add the chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella and red onion and mix gently.
Step 4: Finish and season
Fold in the avocado and arugula just before serving and season with salt and pepper.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Add the avocado last so it stays fresh and green.
- Chill for 20 to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Refresh with pesto. Add an extra spoonful of pesto and olive oil if it dries out.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Make It Your Own
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
- Shrimp: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp.
- Spinach: Use baby spinach instead of arugula.
- Bowties: Try farfalle for a fun shape.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Make the pasta salad (without the avocado and arugula) up to 3 days ahead. Add them right before serving.
What to Serve With Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a full meal, but it pairs well with fresh fruit, garlic bread or a Watermelon Cucumber Cooler on a hot day.
Storing and Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir in a spoonful of pesto to refresh before serving. Do not freeze.
What People Ask About Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I make pesto chicken pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the avocado and arugula just before serving.
What pasta is best for pesto pasta salad?
Short shapes like rotini, fusilli, penne and bowties.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes. Store-bought pesto works great and saves time.
Is pesto chicken pasta salad served cold?
It is best chilled or at room temperature.
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Toss the cooked pasta with basil pesto and shredded Parmesan in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- Add the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix gently to combine.
- Fold in the diced avocado and fresh arugula just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Nutrition
Notes
- Add avocado right before serving so it stays fresh and doesn’t brown.
- Let the salad chill for 20–30 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
- Add a drizzle of extra pesto and olive oil if the salad feels dry after chilling.
