Go Back
Pesto Chicken Salad

Pesto Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Pesto Chicken Salad is a creamy and crunchy delight that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, it's an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love. Try it tonight for a refreshing twist on a classic salad!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken or rotisserie, cubed
  • 1/2 cup roasted red pepper finely diced jarred
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes finely diced in oil
  • 1/2 cup roasted almonds sliced
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup mayo
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Serving suggestions see note 5

Equipment

  • large bowl

Method
 

  1. Add all ingredients in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Gently stir until combined. Taste and adjust seasonings. Toast bread or slice open a fresh croissant. Top with lettuce and a few scoops of pesto chicken salad. Add any other desired toppings—I love a few slices of ripe avocado.

Notes

  • Tip 1: I love roasted red pepper strips. Drain well before dicing.
  • Tip 2: Try to find tomatoes packed in oil and with herbs for more flavor.
  • Tip 3: I like to grab already toasted almonds—more flavor and no extra work for you!
  • Tip 4: The pesto is the most important ingredient in this salad! You’ll want to use freshly made basil pesto (or make your own), not the preserved/jarred kind. Freshly made pesto is typically near fresh (not dried) pasta or in the produce section of the store. My two favorites are Buitoni® Pesto with Basil or Rana® Basil Pesto.
  • Tip 5: For assembly, use bread (I love mini croissants), lettuce, avocado, or whatever you like on a chicken salad sandwich!
  • Tip 6: For the best flavor, enjoy this recipe the same day it’s made. If preparing ahead, you can refrigerate it for a few hours. For longer storage, it will last in the fridge for 2–3 days, though the flavors and textures will change, and the almonds may soften.