Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and refreshing dish to serve at your next gathering or enjoy as a light meal? Look no further than this mouthwatering Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken recipe. Packed with flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish, provide valuable insights on the ingredients used, and offer tips for variations and substitutions. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to making the perfect Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken!
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s take a look at the key ingredients you will need to make this flavorful dish:
- 8 ounces of fusilli pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delightful Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the Pesto Sauce
Now it’s time to make the star of the dish – the pesto sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse the ingredients a few times to break them down. Then, with the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and red onion. Pour the pesto sauce over the ingredients and toss everything together until well coated. Feel free to adjust the amount of pesto sauce according to your taste preferences. Finally, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts on top for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
Variations and Substitutions
While this Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken recipe is already a winner, you can always customize it to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of fusilli to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have basil on hand, you can use other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even arugula to create a unique flavor profile.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace the pine nuts with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Summary
In conclusion, this Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please your taste buds. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and satisfying dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a light and refreshing meal, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken that will leave you wanting more!
