Pesto Chicken Salad is a culinary delight that masterfully blends tender rotisserie chicken with vibrant roasted red peppers, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a delightful crunch from sliced almonds. All these exquisite ingredients are lovingly coated in a rich, incredibly flavorful pesto dressing, promising a quick, easy, and deeply satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Craving more fantastic chicken salad creations? Dive into our other popular recipes for inspiration: Honey Mustard Chicken Salad, Curry Chicken Salad, or our refreshing Pineapple Chicken Salad. Each offers a unique flavor profile to tantalize your taste buds!

The Ultimate Pesto Chicken Salad Recipe: Your New Go-To Meal!

There’s a unique satisfaction in discovering a dish that flawlessly combines speed, simplicity, and gourmet flavor. For many, that elusive dish is a truly exceptional pesto chicken salad. I confess, whenever I visit a cozy soup, salad, and sandwich shop, if pesto chicken salad graces the menu, it’s an immediate, irresistible choice. The vibrant flavors, the delightful textures – it’s simply unparalleled.

This deep affection inspired me to craft my own version, a recipe that has truly become my dream sandwich. Picture this: a soft, flaky croissant, its buttery layers embracing crisp, fresh lettuce, succulent chicken generously coated in bright green pesto, sweet and smoky roasted red peppers, chewy, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a final flourish of crunchy, toasted almonds. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes – pure culinary bliss!

My Pesto Chicken Salad isn’t just a personal favorite; it’s genuinely the best. It’s designed to be incredibly quick to prepare, making it a lifesaver on busy days when you crave something wholesome and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. What sets this recipe apart is its thoughtful composition: it’s more nutritious than many traditional chicken salads that rely heavily on excessive sour cream and mayonnaise. I incorporate just enough mayo to create a luxurious creaminess that binds all the ingredients together, ensuring the star of the show – the aromatic, fresh pesto – shines through brilliantly. This delicate balance results in a chicken salad that feels both indulgent and remarkably fresh.

Why You’ll Adore This Pesto Chicken Salad

This Pesto Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience designed to delight. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire:

• Unbelievably Fast: Leveraging the convenience of a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, this entire dish can be ready in under 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate solution for quick lunches, effortless dinners, or impromptu gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: Every spoonful is packed with a complex symphony of tastes. The herbaceous depth of fresh pesto, the savory richness of chicken, the sweet tang of roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes, all harmonized by a zesty dressing.
• Textural Harmony: Beyond just taste, this salad offers a captivating interplay of textures. You’ll savor the tender chicken, the chewy sun-dried tomatoes, the soft, sweet roasted peppers, and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds in every single bite.
• Remarkably Versatile: Its adaptability knows no bounds! Whether you’re serving it as a gourmet sandwich filling, a light and healthy lettuce wrap, a protein-packed topping for a green salad, or simply enjoying it scooped onto crackers, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
• A Healthier Indulgence: We’ve carefully crafted the dressing to highlight the fresh pesto while keeping the heavier elements balanced. This means you get all the creamy satisfaction without an overpowering richness, making it a more wholesome choice compared to many traditional chicken salads.
• Effortless Customization: The recipe provides a fantastic base, but it’s also wonderfully forgiving. Easily adapt it with your favorite nuts, additional vegetables, or a sprinkle of cheese to truly make it your own.

The Main Ingredients Spotlight: Building Your Pesto Chicken Salad

This exquisite salad relies on a core of just four main ingredients, which, when combined with our vibrant dressing, create an unforgettable culinary experience. Each component is chosen for its unique contribution to both flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Rotisserie Chicken: The undisputed hero for speed and flavor! Utilizing pre-cooked rotisserie chicken significantly cuts down your preparation time, making this salad an ideal choice for busy schedules. Beyond convenience, rotisserie chicken comes pre-seasoned and perfectly cooked, lending an incredible depth of savory flavor and moist, tender texture to your salad that’s hard to replicate with plain boiled chicken. Simply shred or cube the meat – no cooking required!
• Roasted Red Peppers: These gems infuse the salad with a delightful natural sweetness and a subtle smoky undertone that beautifully complements the herbaceous pesto. For maximum convenience, I highly recommend using jarred roasted red peppers. You can typically find these near the pickles, capers, and olives in most grocery stores. Remember to drain them thoroughly of their brine and pat them dry before finely dicing them. This prevents any excess moisture from diluting your dressing and ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the salad.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Packed in Oil): These concentrated flavor powerhouses add a wonderful burst of tangy sweetness and a satisfyingly chewy texture. They bring a rich, umami depth that elevates the entire dish. Always opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, and ideally, choose those infused with herbs like oregano or basil for an extra layer of Mediterranean-inspired flavor. The oil keeps them plump and tender. Be sure to drain them well before finely dicing to avoid an overly oily salad.
• Sliced Almonds (Preferably Toasted): For that essential textural contrast that makes every bite exciting, sliced almonds are indispensable. They introduce a satisfying crunch and a delicate nutty flavor that truly elevates the overall profile of the salad. To deepen their flavor and enhance their crispness, I often purchase them already toasted. If you have raw sliced almonds, a quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes (until fragrant and lightly golden) will make a significant difference. You can also experiment with other nuts like pine nuts or walnuts if you prefer a different nutty note.

Crafting the Irresistible Pesto Dressing: The Heart of the Salad

The dressing in this recipe is far more than just a binder; it’s the vibrant soul that makes this Pesto Chicken Salad truly exceptional. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute to a perfectly creamy, tangy, and intensely flavorful coating for our tender chicken and medley of vegetables. Here’s a detailed look at each component and its crucial role:

• Fresh Basil Pesto: This is undeniably the star of our dressing and the entire salad. The quality of your pesto will profoundly influence the final flavor. For the best results, bypass shelf-stable, jarred pestos that often lack the vibrant, herbaceous freshness. Instead, seek out high-quality fresh basil pesto, typically found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store alongside fresh pasta or in the produce aisle. Brands like Buitoni® Pesto with Basil or Giovanni Rana® Basil Pesto are fantastic options. For an unparalleled taste experience, consider the rewarding effort of making your own homemade pesto – it’s simpler than you might think and truly sublime.
• Mayonnaise: A modest amount of rich, creamy mayonnaise serves a crucial purpose: it provides a smooth emulsification, binding the dressing components together and imparting a luxurious mouthfeel to the salad. It’s important not to overdo it; the goal is to create a delightful creaminess without masking the bright, distinct flavor of the pesto. Best Foods® (or Hellmann’s® in many regions) is a consistently reliable choice for its excellent quality and creamy texture.
• Sour Cream: The addition of sour cream introduces a wonderful tangy counterpoint to the richness of the mayo and pesto, creating a perfectly balanced creaminess. It also helps to lighten the overall texture of the dressing. You can use any type of sour cream you prefer—regular, low-fat, or fat-free will all integrate beautifully into this recipe, offering flexibility without compromising flavor.
• Honey: Just a touch of honey provides a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginess of the sour cream and Dijon, and the savory notes of the pesto. It rounds out the flavor profile without making the dressing overtly sweet.
• Dijon Mustard: This sophisticated condiment adds a fantastic zesty kick and a subtle depth of flavor that brightens the entire dressing. Its distinctive tang is essential for cutting through the richness of the creamy base. It’s crucial to use Dijon-style mustard rather than regular yellow mustard, as the latter’s sharper, more acidic profile would significantly alter the intended flavor balance.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Always, always opt for fresh-squeezed lemon juice! It provides an invaluable burst of bright, acidic flavor that elevates all the other ingredients, adding a refreshing lift to the dressing. If you’re a passionate fan of a stronger lemon presence, feel free to grate in a bit of lemon zest for an even more aromatic and intense citrus punch.
• Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are vital for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony. The exact amount needed will vary depending on the inherent saltiness of your chosen pesto and whether your rotisserie chicken was heavily seasoned. Always start with a conservative amount, mix well, taste, and then adjust gradually. More often than not, if the salad feels like it’s lacking that certain something, a simple extra pinch of salt is all it needs to truly sing.

Pesto Chicken Salad Variations & Exciting Add-ins

The beauty of chicken salad lies in its incredible versatility. This Pesto Chicken Salad recipe provides a fantastic foundation, but don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it based on what you have on hand. Here are some inspiring ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Nutty Swaps: If almonds aren’t your preference, or you’re looking to explore different flavors, try substituting with other nuts. Toasted pine nuts offer a delicate, buttery taste, while walnuts or pecans provide a richer, earthier crunch. Cashews can add a creamier texture.
• Herbaceous Boost: Intensify the fresh flavors by mixing in additional finely chopped fresh herbs. Extra basil, fresh parsley, chives, or even a hint of dill can brighten the salad and add another layer of aromatic complexity.
• Creamy Avocado Indulgence: For an even richer, creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats, gently fold in some diced ripe avocado just before serving. Its smooth consistency and mild flavor complement the pesto beautifully.
• Vibrant Veggie Additions: Increase the nutritional value and textural variety with more vegetables. Finely diced celery adds a refreshing crunch, while finely chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) introduce a pop of color and subtle sweetness. Sliced cucumbers or halved cherry tomatoes can also add a fresh, juicy element.
• A Touch of Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the dressing or a finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) can add a delightful kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Cheesy Goodness: For an extra layer of savory, umami flavor, fold in a tablespoon or two of finely grated Parmesan cheese. Its salty, sharp notes meld wonderfully with the pesto.
• Mediterranean Flair: Add a spoonful of pitted, chopped Kalamata olives or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for a more pronounced Mediterranean character.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Salad: Simple & Quick Steps

Creating this irresistible Pesto Chicken Salad is wonderfully straightforward, promising a gourmet-quality meal with minimal effort. Follow these easy steps to bring this flavorful dish to life:

1. Prepare All Ingredients: Begin by prepping your core components. Shred or cube the cooked rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Take your jarred roasted red peppers, drain them thoroughly, pat them dry, and then finely dice them. Similarly, finely dice the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes after draining them well. If your sliced almonds are raw, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly golden – this enhances their flavor and crunch significantly. Having all your ingredients ready makes the assembly process seamless.
2. Craft the Creamy Dressing: In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: the fresh basil pesto, mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and all ingredients are thoroughly integrated. Take a moment to taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired to achieve your perfect flavor balance.
3. Combine and Mix the Salad: Transfer the prepared chicken, diced roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted sliced almonds into a large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly whisked pesto dressing over these ingredients. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently but thoroughly stir everything together until all the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the vibrant, green pesto dressing. Ensure every piece is glistening with flavor.
4. Assemble and Serve: Now comes the best part – assembly and enjoyment! Prepare your chosen serving vessel: toast your favorite bread to a golden crisp, or slice open a fresh, buttery croissant. Lay a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce leaves on your bread or wrap, then generously spoon a hearty portion of your homemade Pesto Chicken Salad on top. Feel free to add any additional desired toppings, such as thin slices of ripe avocado for an extra layer of creaminess and richness. Serve the salad immediately for the ultimate flavor and texture experience, or chill it in the refrigerator for a short period if you prefer a cooler salad.

Pesto Chicken Salad Serving Suggestions for Any Meal

This incredibly versatile Pesto Chicken Salad extends far beyond the traditional sandwich. Its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture make it suitable for a multitude of serving styles, perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as an elegant appetizer. Let your creativity guide you with these delicious ideas:

• On a Buttery Croissant: My absolute favorite way to savor this salad! The delicate, flaky layers and rich, buttery flavor of a fresh croissant create an unparalleled pairing with the creamy, savory chicken salad. Add some crisp lettuce and a few thin slices of ripe avocado for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Classic Toasted Bread Sandwich: A timeless choice for a reason! This salad shines on virtually any type of toasted bread. Experiment with sourdough, whole grain, rye, or a hearty multigrain bread. The warm, slightly crisp texture of toast provides a delightful contrast to the cool, creamy filling.
• Fresh Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option): For a lighter, carb-conscious alternative, generously spoon the Pesto Chicken Salad into crisp butter lettuce leaves, large romaine hearts, or endive spears. It’s a wonderfully refreshing and healthy way to enjoy all the vibrant flavors without the bread.
• As a Simple Salad or Dip: Enjoy it straight from the bowl as a quick, satisfying meal, perhaps alongside some fresh greens. Alternatively, serve it as a gourmet dip with your favorite pita chips, sturdy crackers, or a colorful array of crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
• Stuffed in a Toasted Pita Pocket: Warm a pita pocket until it’s soft and pliable, then stuff it generously with Pesto Chicken Salad, perhaps adding some extra fresh spinach or cucumber slices. It makes for a convenient, flavorful, and portable meal.
• Inside a Halved Avocado: For an elegant presentation and an extra boost of healthy fats, spoon the chicken salad into the hollow of a halved, pitted avocado. This option is not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious and delicious.
• Mini Appetizer Bites: Transform this salad into delightful appetizers for your next gathering. Serve small scoops on cucumber rounds, individual endive leaves, or mini toasts for sophisticated, bite-sized treats.
• On Top of a Green Salad: Use it as a protein-rich topping for a bed of mixed greens, adding extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pesto Chicken Salad

• Can I use fresh chicken I cook myself instead of rotisserie? Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken offers fantastic convenience and flavor, you can certainly cook your own. Simply poach, bake, or grill about 3 cups of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Once cooked and cooled, shred or cube it into bite-sized pieces. This gives you complete control over the chicken’s seasoning.
• I’m not a big fan of mayonnaise. Can I reduce it or use a substitute? Yes, you can! To lighten the dressing, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise by half and increase the sour cream by a similar amount for a less mayo-forward flavor. Greek yogurt is another common substitute, but be aware that it will impart a tangier flavor profile and a slightly different texture to the dressing.
• Is this Pesto Chicken Salad recipe gluten-free? The salad itself, with its main ingredients and dressing, is naturally gluten-free. To keep your meal entirely gluten-free, simply ensure that your chosen pesto does not contain any hidden gluten (most basil pestos are gluten-free, but always check labels) and serve the salad with gluten-free bread, crackers, or as a refreshing lettuce wrap.
• How can I add more spice to my chicken salad? If you enjoy a kick, there are several ways to spice up this salad. You can add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the dressing mixture. For a fresh, moderate heat, finely mince half a jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) and stir it into the salad. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also be mixed into the dressing.
• Can Pesto Chicken Salad be prepared ahead of time for meal prep? Yes, it can, with a small consideration. While the salad is best enjoyed fresh for optimal crunch, you can prepare it 1-2 days in advance. For best results when meal prepping, consider storing the sliced almonds separately and adding them just before serving to preserve their crispness. This helps maintain the desired textural contrast.
• What are some good side dishes to serve with Pesto Chicken Salad? This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think fresh fruit (grapes, berries), a light green salad, potato chips or sweet potato fries, a simple pasta salad, or even a cup of your favorite soup.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars from 4 votes

Pesto Chicken Salad

By
Chelsea Lords

This quick and easy Pesto Chicken Salad is made with tender rotisserie chicken, sweet roasted red peppers, savory sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy almonds, and a fresh basil pesto dressing.

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
20 minutes

Yields:
6 loaded sandwiches

Recipe Video (Optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl for dressing
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Ingredients

For the Pesto Chicken Salad:

• 3 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended), cubed or shredded
• 1/2 cup finely diced jarred roasted red pepper (drained well, see Note 1)
• 1/2 cup finely diced sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained well, preferably with herbs, see Note 2)
• 1/2 cup sliced roasted almonds (or toasted, see Note 3)

For the Creamy Pesto Dressing:

• 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (high quality, refrigerated, see Note 4)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly (Serving Suggestions):

• Your favorite bread (croissants, sourdough), lettuce cups, or crackers (see Note 5)
• Fresh lettuce leaves
• Optional: Sliced avocado, extra fresh herbs

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed rotisserie chicken, finely diced roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and sliced roasted almonds.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly coated with the vibrant pesto dressing. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
4. To serve, prepare your favorite bread (toast if desired) or slice open a fresh croissant. Layer with crisp lettuce leaves, then spoon a generous amount of Pesto Chicken Salad. Add any other desired toppings, such as fresh avocado slices for extra creaminess. Enjoy immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Roasted Red Peppers: For maximum convenience, use high-quality jarred roasted red pepper strips. It’s crucial to drain them exceptionally well and pat them dry before dicing to prevent any excess liquid from diluting your dressing and making the salad watery.

Note 2: Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a burst of intense, savory-sweet flavor, seek out sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, especially those that come pre-infused with Italian herbs. Remember to drain them thoroughly of the oil before finely chopping.

Note 3: Almonds: To save time and boost flavor, I recommend purchasing pre-toasted sliced almonds. If your almonds are raw, a quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant will dramatically improve their taste and crunch.

Note 4: Basil Pesto Quality: The pesto is the paramount ingredient in this salad! For the best possible flavor, always opt for a high-quality, freshly made basil pesto found in the refrigerated section (usually near fresh pasta or in the produce section), rather than the shelf-stable, jarred varieties. My personal favorites include Buitoni® Pesto with Basil or Giovanni Rana® Basil Pesto. Better yet, consider making your own homemade pesto for unparalleled freshness.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions: The versatility of this salad means you can serve it in many ways! Popular choices include fresh bread (mini croissants are a personal favorite), crisp lettuce wraps, or alongside fresh avocado slices. Use whatever you typically enjoy with a classic chicken salad sandwich or get creative!

Storage: For the most vibrant flavor and optimal texture, this recipe is truly best enjoyed on the day it’s prepared. If you have leftovers or need to prepare it a bit in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Be aware that over time, the flavors may mellow, and the almonds will soften as they absorb moisture from the dressing.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Serving: 1 of 6 loaded sandwiches |
Calories: 362kcal |
Carbohydrates: 9.8g |
Protein: 30g |
Fat: 22.6g |
Cholesterol: 88mg |
Sodium: 225.3mg |
Fiber: 2.5g |
Sugar: 5.9g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

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