Easy Pesto Chicken Salad

Name: Easy Pesto Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup jarred roasted red peppers, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

A fresh and flavorful chicken salad tossed in a creamy, herb packed pesto dressing.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· July 20, 2026

recipesbynani.com

Prep

10 minutes

Cook

0 minutes

Total

10 minutes

Serves

This is one of my favorite go to recipes when I need a quick lunch that still feels special. The combination of tender chicken and bright pesto is always a hit with my family because it is so satisfying without being too heavy.

My best tip is to use rotisserie chicken if you are in a rush. It saves a lot of time and makes this meal come together in just a few minutes, which is perfect for busy weekdays.

🧺 Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup jarred roasted red peppers, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

👩‍🍳Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, roasted red peppers, and diced red onion.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto and mayonnaise until smooth.
3
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
4
Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5
Sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves before serving.

💡 Tips

You can serve this salad inside lettuce wraps for a low carb option or on top of toasted sourdough bread for a hearty sandwich. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

#chicken salad #lunch ideas #quick meals #pesto #easy recipes

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