When you need a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this healthy pesto chicken salad with rotisserie chicken is the perfect solution. It’s light, packed with protein, and bursting with fresh basil pesto. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or wrapped in lettuce, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – Using rotisserie chicken saves so much time.
Fresh and flavorful – Homemade or store-bought pesto adds a bright, herby kick.
Versatile – Enjoy it in a wrap, on toast, or as a salad topping.
Healthy and satisfying – A great balance of protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients

Rotisserie chicken (shredded)
Fresh basil pesto
Greek yogurt or mayo
Cherry tomatoes
Red onion
Spinach or arugula
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Nuts (optional, for crunch)

Full list of ingredients and measurements below.

Directions

Shred the Chicken

Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the pesto with Greek yogurt (or mayo) and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Stir well until smooth.

Toss Everything Together

Add the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and fresh spinach or arugula to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then toss until everything is evenly coated in the pesto dressing.

Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy the salad as-is, serve it in a sandwich, or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use fresh pesto for the best flavor.
Let the salad chill for 15 minutes before serving to enhance the taste.
Add chopped nuts like almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap Greek yogurt for mayo if you prefer a richer texture.
Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Use grilled chicken if you don’t have rotisserie chicken.
Toss in some cooked quinoa for a heartier meal.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve over mixed greens for a light meal.
Pair with crusty whole-grain bread or pita.
Enjoy with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa.
Wrap in a tortilla for a delicious pesto chicken wrap.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Enjoy cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes! While homemade pesto is ideal, store-bought works just as well for convenience.

What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken? You can cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs.

Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Use a dairy-free pesto and replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery? Make sure to use fresh, firm cherry tomatoes and avoid over-mixing the salad.

Conclusion

This healthy pesto chicken salad with rotisserie chicken is a fresh, easy, and flavorful meal you can enjoy in so many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this dish is a great go-to option. Try it out and let me know how you serve it!

Healthy Pesto Chicken Salad with Rotisserie Chicken – Fresh and Flavorful!

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This quick and nutritious pesto chicken salad combines tender rotisserie chicken with fresh basil pesto, Greek yogurt, and crisp vegetables. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for salads, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a healthy balance of protein and fats.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Shred the Chicken: Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the basil pesto with Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) and fresh lemon juice. Stir well until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and spinach (or arugula) to the bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the pesto dressing.
Add Crunch (Optional): If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the salad for added texture and flavor.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately as-is, in a sandwich, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or over a bed of mixed greens.

Notes

For the freshest taste, use homemade pesto, but store-bought works well for convenience.
Letting the salad chill for 15 minutes before serving can enhance the flavors.
To keep the salad from becoming watery, use firm cherry tomatoes and avoid overmixing.