Pesto Chicken Salad Bowl

This pesto chicken salad transforms ordinary rotisserie chicken into a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that's ready in minutes. The combination of tender chicken, creamy yogurt, and aromatic pesto creates a perfect balance that works beautifully in sandwiches, wraps, or atop fresh greens. I developed this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed quick, satisfying lunches that didn't sacrifice flavor or nutrition.

I made this three times last week alone, rotating between serving it on toasted sourdough one day and over peppery arugula the next. My teenage son even requested it in his lunch box, which is the ultimate seal of approval in my household.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotisserie chicken: The foundation of our salad provides tender, pre-cooked protein. Look for a fresh rotisserie chicken that's still warm from the store, and mix white and dark meat for the best flavor and moisture. If you're shredding your own, do it while the chicken is still slightly warm for easier pulling.
• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt: This provides creaminess with fewer calories and more protein than mayonnaise. Choose full-fat or 2% for the best texture and flavor balance. The tanginess perfectly complements the rich pesto.
• 6 oz pesto: The star ingredient that infuses the entire salad with herby, garlicky goodness. Fresh refrigerated pesto tastes brightest, but jarred works beautifully too. Look for one with vibrant green color and real Parmesan listed in the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Select your rotisserie chicken and remove all the meat from the bones, focusing on the breast, thighs, and drumsticks. Discard the skin (or save it for another use if you prefer). Using two forks or your clean hands, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring there are no large chunks that would make the salad difficult to eat. Measure out 2 cups of shredded chicken and place it in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2:

Measure the Greek yogurt carefully and add it to the bowl with the shredded chicken. The yogurt will provide moisture and a tangy creaminess that binds everything together. Spoon in the pesto, making sure to get all the flavorful oil and herbs from the container. The vibrant green color will immediately begin to transform the simple chicken.

Step 3:

Using a sturdy spoon or rubber spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together, ensuring the pesto and yogurt are evenly distributed throughout the chicken. Continue mixing until no white streaks of yogurt remain and the chicken is uniformly coated in the creamy, herb-flecked sauce. The texture should be creamy but still have distinct pieces of chicken.

Step 4:

Sample a small bite of your chicken salad and consider the flavor balance. If needed, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. For more brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice works wonders. If you prefer more herb flavor, incorporate additional pesto a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired taste.

Step 5:

Enjoy immediately or transfer to an airtight container for storage. The salad can be served in multiple ways: piled onto toasted bread, stuffed into a wrap with fresh vegetables, mounded onto croissants for an elegant lunch, or served over crisp greens like arugula, romaine, or kale for a lower-carb option.

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I've found basil to be such a game-changer in my everyday cooking. My grandmother, who lived well into her 90s, grew basil in her kitchen window and added it to nearly everything. She swore by its digestive benefits, but I love it simply for how it transforms ordinary ingredients into something special with minimal effort.

Make It Your Own

This pesto chicken salad serves as a wonderful template that welcomes customization. Consider adding quartered cherry tomatoes for juicy bursts of flavor and visual appeal. Toasted pine nuts contribute delightful crunch while echoing the nutty notes already present in the pesto. For a more substantial version, fold in some cooked, cooled pasta shells or orzo to transform it into a complete pasta salad that works beautifully for picnics or potlucks.

Storage Tips

Proper storage ensures this chicken salad remains fresh and delicious for several days. Always use a clean utensil when serving to prevent introducing bacteria. Store in a glass container rather than plastic to prevent any flavor transfer. If you're planning to make this ahead for lunches, consider portioning it into individual containers, keeping any greens or bread separate until just before serving to maintain optimal texture and prevent sogginess.

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Nutrition Boost

Despite its creamy indulgence, this pesto chicken salad packs impressive nutritional benefits. The combination of complete protein from both the chicken and Greek yogurt supports muscle maintenance and provides sustained energy. Basil, the predominant herb in pesto, contains vitamin K, manganese, and various antioxidants that support immune function. If you're watching sodium, consider making your own pesto with reduced salt or using a low-sodium rotisserie chicken, which allows you to control the overall salt content while still enjoying all the wonderful flavors of this quick and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto works perfectly and can enhance the freshness of the dish. Use your favorite recipe or adjust the seasonings to match your taste preferences.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

You can serve this salad in wraps, on croissants, toast, or as a topping for fresh greens like arugula, kale, or romaine. It’s versatile and pairs well with various bread or greens.

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another ingredient?

Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with mayonnaise, a dairy-free yogurt alternative, or even sour cream if desired. Adjust according to your dietary needs and taste.

→ How long can I store pesto chicken salad?

Store the pesto chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s chilled properly to maintain freshness.

→ Can I add extra ingredients for more flavor?

Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, diced tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.