This tasty chicken pasta salad features tender chicken, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes. It’s colorful, fresh, and perfect for a light meal or a side dish!
I love how quick it comes together, making lunch planning a breeze. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s good for you and delicious? 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini because its shape holds the dressing and mix-ins well. If you’re gluten-free, opt for quinoa pasta or any gluten-free pasta you like.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is fantastic, but you can use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a change. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or grilled tofu instead for protein!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you don’t have one, you can substitute with a bit of plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture, or simply skip it if you’re not a fan.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and easy to eat. If they’re out of season, use diced bell peppers for color and crunch instead.
Fresh Herbs: Basil is my go-to because it complements the other flavors beautifully. However, you could use parsley or cilantro if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Cook Perfect Pasta for Salad?
Cooking pasta perfectly is essential for any salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use plenty of water: This prevents the pasta from sticking together. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Al dente is key: Cook the pasta until it’s firm to the bite. This helps it hold up when mixed with other ingredients.
- Cool it quickly: After draining, rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta for your salad.
Following these tips will help you achieve a delightful pasta texture that mixes well with the other fresh ingredients. Happy cooking!
Easy Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta), cooked al dente and cooled
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, along with a chill time of 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend perfectly. You can enjoy this healthy and delicious meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and chopped basil. This colorful mix is not just pretty, but super tasty!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well blended to create a delightful dressing.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together. Be careful while mixing so you don’t mash the avocado and end up with guacamole instead!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy this salad cold or at room temperature.
7. Enjoy:
Your Easy Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato is now ready! Dig in and enjoy this fresh, nutritious, and absolutely delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier alternative. It adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions closely, as it may need a slightly different cooking time.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the avocado from browning, you can squeeze a little extra lemon juice over it before storing. Simply stir gently before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this a vegan dish, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. You can also omit the avocado or use a vegan mayo to mimic its creaminess.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your salad with whatever veggies you like! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinaches are great additions. Just chop them up and mix them in for added color and crunch!
