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Pesto Chicken Salad

Pesto Chicken Salad

The ultimate refreshing meal! This Pesto Chicken Salad is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch or family gathering. Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a healthy choice that will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a taste that will linger in your memory!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup pesto prepared
  • 1 cup celery diced
  • 1 cup sweet green peas
  • 1/4 cup sweet onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
  • pine nuts

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need shredded chicken, mayonnaise, pesto, diced celery, green peas, onion, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. Having everything prepared will make the process smooth.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, green peas, and onion. Use a spatula to gently mix these ingredients until they are well incorporated. You want to make sure every piece of chicken is surrounded by the crunchy celery and sweet peas.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will serve as the dressing for your salad. Make sure to stir well to combine, creating a luscious, green-hued dressing.
  4. Once the dressing is smooth, pour it over the chicken mixture in the first bowl. Gently fold the dressing into the salad, taking your time to ensure that every bit of the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. You want the dressing to hug each ingredient perfectly.
  5. If you find the mixture to be a bit dry, feel free to add a little more mayonnaise or pesto to achieve your desired creaminess. Taste as you go; this is your salad, after all!
  6. After mixing, it’s time to plate. Transfer the salad into your serving dish. I love using a large, colorful bowl that showcases the vibrant colors of the Pesto Chicken Salad.
  7. For an extra touch, garnish the salad with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a handful of pine nuts. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
  8. Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The Pesto Chicken Salad is best served cold, making it a refreshing option.
  9. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. Add extra garnishes if desired, and present it as a centerpiece for your meal. Each bite will be packed with flavor!

Notes

This Pesto Chicken Salad is versatile and delicious. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed to maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken mixture separately before adding the dressing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
  • Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a filling for wraps. It’s great for picnics and gatherings.
  • Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
  • Serving Size: This recipe serves about six people, making it perfect for small gatherings or meal prep for the week.