This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep! With juicy chicken, fresh basil pesto, and crunchy veggies, it’s tasty and bright. You can enjoy it in a wrap, on greens, or just by itself!
I love how quick it is to whip up and how it stays fresh in the fridge. Plus, if there’s any leftover pesto, I might just eat it with a spoon. Who can blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baked or grilled chicken breast works great too. For a vegetarian twist, consider using chickpeas or tofu!
Basil Pesto: I love making my own pesto, but store-bought is fine for speed. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan pesto or make it at home using nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Celery: Celery adds a lovely crunch, but you can substitute with diced bell peppers or cucumbers if you prefer. Carrots would also work well for a sweeter crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the flavor, but feel free to swap it for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Feta cheese can also make a nice replacement!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Stays Fresh?
For freshness, proper storage is key. Use airtight containers for your salad to keep it crisp and tasty. It’s best to add any extra toppings, like nuts or crunchy veggies, just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Make sure your cooked chicken is completely cooled before mixing.
- Store in the fridge and consume within 4-5 days for best flavor.
- To avoid sogginess, you can keep the pesto separate until you’re ready to eat.
Easy Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe for Meal Prep
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Pesto Chicken Salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick meal prep option that can be stored in the fridge, so you can enjoy it throughout the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Celery:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded or chopped cooked chicken with the finely chopped celery. This will be the base of your salad, providing protein and crunch.
2. Add the Pesto:
Next, add the basil pesto to your chicken and celery mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the delicious pesto, giving it a vibrant flavor.
3. Mix in the Parmesan:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a rich and savory flavor. Mix again to incorporate the cheese throughout the salad.
4. Season to Taste:
Taste your salad and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Give it another gentle mix to make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the pesto chicken salad to a serving bowl, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and color.
6. Meal Prep and Enjoy:
Store the salad in airtight containers in the fridge for meal prep. It keeps well for several days and can be enjoyed on its own or over greens, or as a filling in sandwiches and wraps. Enjoy your tasty meal prep!
FAQ for Easy Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this salad. Just make sure to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pesto chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. It tastes best when consumed within this time frame!
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Many store-bought pestos also offer dairy-free options!
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad is versatile! You can enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or even as a filling in sandwiches. Pair it with some fresh veggies or a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
