Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

This easy and flavorful Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad is a perfect side dish for gatherings, BBQs, or a quick meal. Made with fresh ingredients and a delicious pesto dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 10

Total Time: 20

Servings:

Calories: 862kcal

Ingredients

17 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
⅔ cup Italian salad dressing
½ cup pesto
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup fresh arugula
2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions (about 8-9 minutes) until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.
Assemble the Salad – Add spinach, arugula, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, and shredded Parmesan cheese to the pasta.
Prepare the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and pesto until well combined.
Mix & Serve – Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly. Top with grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper as desired.
Chill or Serve – Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Toss before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

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