Bright, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, this Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken is the perfect dish for lunch, weeknight dinners, or summer gatherings. The combination of tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella balls tossed in aromatic basil pesto creates a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite.

Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it at a potluck, or enjoying a quick meal at home, this pasta salad is a deliciously easy way to elevate simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing recipe. The basil pesto adds a rich, herbaceous punch that pairs beautifully with the salty olives and juicy chicken, making it a versatile and family-friendly favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, picnics, or potlucks.
Nutritious and balanced: Protein from chicken, healthy fats from pesto, and fiber from pasta and vegetables.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or proteins.
Make-ahead friendly: Flavors meld beautifully after chilling.
Fresh and flavorful: The basil pesto elevates the dish with herbal, garlicky notes.

Ingredient Breakdown

Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape holds onto the pesto and other ingredients for maximum flavor in every bite.
Cooked Chicken Breast – Adds lean protein, making the salad hearty and satisfying.
Cherry Tomatoes – Bring a natural sweetness and juicy pop to balance the richness of the pesto.
Black Olives – Offer a briny, savory contrast to the fresh vegetables.
Red Onion – Adds mild pungency and crunch to the salad.
Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini) – Provide a creamy texture and subtle milky flavor.
Basil Pesto – The star of the dish, giving it aromatic, herby, and slightly nutty flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps the pesto coat the pasta evenly and adds richness.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
Fresh Basil Leaves (optional) – Adds a final layer of freshness and visual appeal.

Pro Tips

Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds its shape better when tossed with other ingredients.
Cool pasta completely: Prevents the pesto from wilting the fresh ingredients.
Use high-quality pesto: Homemade or store-bought premium pesto dramatically improves flavor.
Add texture: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add crunch.
Balance flavors: Taste for salt and acidity—sometimes a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for feta or Parmesan shavings.
Protein Alternatives: Use turkey, grilled shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rotini or other pasta shapes.
Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions

As a Main Dish: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a complete meal.
As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or BBQ.
Picnic-Friendly: Pack in a container for a refreshing outdoor lunch.
Party Platter: Pair with antipasto skewers or fresh fruit for a colorful buffet.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: Cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store separately until ready to assemble.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving from Fridge: Allow salad to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to let flavors come alive.
Avoid Sogginess: Toss with pesto just before serving if prepping a day ahead.
Reheating: Not necessary—this salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Pasta salads have long been a staple in Italian-American cuisine, often featuring fresh vegetables, cheeses, and flavorful dressings. The addition of pesto—a classic Italian sauce made from basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil—elevates the dish to a bright, herb-forward Mediterranean-inspired flavor. This version with chicken adds protein, making it both satisfying and versatile for modern home cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use rotini alternatives?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well as they hold onto the pesto and mix-ins.

2. Can this be made vegetarian?
Absolutely—omit the chicken and add chickpeas, tofu, or extra vegetables for protein.

3. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Avoid adding fresh basil until just before serving.

4. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works fine. Homemade will give a fresher flavor.

5. Can I serve it warm?
While it’s traditionally served chilled, you can enjoy it slightly warmed if preferred—just add the pesto after heating.

Emily