Name: Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups diced chicken (or shredded chicken); 2 celery ribs, diced; ¼ cup diced red onion; ¼ cup toasted pine nuts; ½ cup basil pesto; ¼ cup mayonnaise; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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If you are on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant twist to your usual chicken salad, then this Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and brighten your table. Combining tender diced chicken with the aromatic burst of basil pesto, crunchy celery, and toasted pine nuts, this salad is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a colorful dinner side, this recipe will become your new go-to for its effortless blend of freshness and richness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds six distinct ingredients arranged neatly in separate sections: light brown toasted pine nuts on the top left, dark green pesto with a coarse texture next to them on the top center, creamy pale mayonnaise to the right, chunks of cooked light beige chicken below the mayonnaise, a pile of finely shredded pale yellow cheese in the center, diced bright green celery on the bottom left, and chopped purple and white red onions at the bottom center. A small amount of black pepper is sprinkled lightly over the cheese. A metal spoon lies on the marble surface near the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe is simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious flavor profile and pleasing texture. From the creamy mayonnaise to the salty punch of Parmesan, every element plays a vital part in bringing this salad together perfectly.

3 cups diced chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or cook fresh chicken breast for tender protein.
2 celery ribs diced: Adds a refreshing crunch and a subtle hint of earthiness.
½ cup basil pesto: The star ingredient that infuses the salad with vibrant herbaceous flavor.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and binds the salad together smoothly.
¼ cup diced red onion: Offers a slight bite and beautiful color contrast.
¼ cup toasted pine nuts: Adds a rich, nutty crunch enhancing the pesto’s almond undertones.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and intensifies all the flavors.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A subtle spice that rounds out the dish.
Optional: freshly grated Parmesan: Sprinkle on top for a sharp, savory finish.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by dicing your cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes for the perfect texture that mixes well with the other ingredients. If you prefer, shred the chicken for a softer salad feel—both work beautifully in this recipe.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Dice the celery ribs finely to ensure they add freshness and crunch without overpowering the salad. Do the same with the red onion, which will give little pops of sharpness to every bite.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, releasing their warm, aromatic oils. This step enhances their flavor, elevating the salad to another level.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently stir together the diced chicken, celery, and red onion. Add in the basil pesto and mayonnaise, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything until the chicken is evenly coated in the luscious pesto mixture.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on the salad and mix them in gently. If you like, grate some fresh Parmesan on top to add a rich, savory note that complements the basil and pine nuts wonderfully.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy green salad made of small cubes of chicken coated in a thick green pesto sauce, mixed with diced green celery and small purple onion pieces. Scattered on top are small pine nuts and thin white cheese shreds. There are fresh green basil leaves placed on the side, and a silver spoon is resting on the edge of the bowl. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A few fresh basil leaves or more toasted pine nuts on top make for a delightful garnish, adding a pop of color and texture that makes the salad even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette, garlic bread, or even a light vegetable soup for a balanced meal. It can also accompany grilled vegetables or be served over crisp greens for a more substantial summer lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, elegant presentation, serve the pesto chicken salad stuffed inside ripe avocado halves or hollowed-out tomatoes. You can also pile it high on crostini for easy, bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when chilled overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy days.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients like celery, this salad does not freeze well—it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days when refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheating is generally not necessary for chicken salad, but if you prefer it warm, gently microwave a portion until just heated through, taking care not to overcook and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use shredded chicken instead of diced?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken works wonderfully in this Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe and can make the texture softer and easier to scoop.

Is basil pesto homemade necessary?

While homemade basil pesto offers the freshest flavor, a good-quality store-bought pesto is a fine shortcut and still delivers great taste.

Can I substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, lending creaminess with less fat and a slight tang.

What can I do if I’m allergic to pine nuts?

Try swapping pine nuts for toasted walnuts or pecans to maintain that nutty crunch without the allergy risk.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, this salad stays fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about this Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. With its fresh basil pesto flavor, crunchy textures, and creamy dressing, it’s a dish that feels special yet is incredibly easy to throw together. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly it can become your summer salad favorite too!