Description
A refreshing and satisfying salad featuring chicken, pasta, and basil pesto, perfect for summer picnics and meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup (120ml) basil pesto
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup (60g) pine nuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup (50g) fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup (25g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest before slicing.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Toast pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
- Halve cherry tomatoes, finely dice red onion, and chop fresh basil leaves.
- Whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced chicken, tomatoes, onion, and pine nuts. Pour pesto dressing over and toss to coat. Add mozzarella, basil, and Parmesan; toss again.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add fresh herbs and cheese just before serving if preparing more than 2 days in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg