Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Fabulous Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad that’s tossed in a deliciously creamy spinach basil pesto made with yogurt to keep it on the lighter side for a perfect summer dish!

Pasta Salad for Dinner

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a go-to for summer entertaining! It’s loaded with chicken, tomatoes and fresh mozzarella and tossed in a creamy spinach basil pesto that’s made with yogurt to keep it on the lighter side. Pile it on top of a big bed of spinach and you’ve got a stunning salad that’s so full of flavor and freshness!

Fresh and Filling

In the heat of the summer, something light and fresh always seems to satisfy best. I love easy dishes that I can make to satisfy a crowd or just get us through a busy week in the summer heat.

I’ve made this pasta salad several times and everyone loves it, including the kiddos! It’s great poolside with lots of fresh fruit for nourishment during a day of swimming. I love keeping it in the fridge for a quick lunch throughout the week that can be ready in minutes! I’ve also made it for a family that was in the process of moving homes and it got them through the week without having to cook or even heat anything up. And I’ve made it for a potluck with girlfriends. It’s definitely become a go-to for summer serving and entertaining!

Pesto Pasta Salad Ingredients and Supplies

(see recipe card at the bottom of this post for measurements and details)

Ingredients:

• Penne pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (or meat from a rotisserie chicken)
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh spinach
• Mozzarella pearls
• Fresh garlic
• Fresh basil
• Fresh spinach
• Olive oil
• Plain yogurt
• Shredded parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt
• Pepper

Supplies:

• Blender
• Large mixing bowl

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

• Prepare the pasta al dente according to package directions.
• Pan sear the chicken with a little salt and pepper until no longer pink and the juices run clear. Let cool on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before cutting into bite-size pieces.
• While the chicken and pasta are cooking and cooling, prepare the pesto. In a blender, blend the garlic, basil, spinach and olive oil until well blended. Stir in the yogurt and shredded parmesan cheese.

• Salt and pepper to taste.
• In a large bowl, toss together the pasta, chicken, halved tomatoes and pesto.
• In a large serving bowl, layer the spinach over the bottom of the bowl.

• Sprinkle with the mozzarella pearls. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
• Toss together before serving or serve as is.

How to Store Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.

More Comfort Foods Your Family Will Love

Gather the family around the table for the comfort of a hot, delicious meal with my Crowd-Pleasing Turkey Lasagna. Fresh herbs, creamy cheeses, and ground turkey make this pasta dish a labor of love that everyone will enjoy. This Chicken Parmesan Casserole recipe is so easy, so flavorful and always a favorite.

Sloppy Joe Casserole is an easy twist on traditional sloppy joes that’s flavorful and delicious! The cheesy crust compliments the beefy tomato filling so well and makes for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner that the whole family will love! This warm and comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole is easy and filling. It’s a healthy meal you’ll feel great about serving your family any night of the week.

If you make this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad, be sure to snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see. If you’re on Facebook, be sure to join my Friends of The BakerMama group to connect and share all the fun and yummy recipes of mine that you make! 😍 I just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas I share. Enjoy!

xoxo,

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