This creamy chicken bacon pasta salad is the perfect mix of flavors! With tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty pesto, it’s a dish that pleases everyone.
You’ll find it hard to resist sneaking bites right out of the bowl! I love serving it chilled on warm days—it’s super refreshing and easy to whip up for a quick meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend orecchiette or small shells for this salad. They hold the creamy sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta like chickpea or lentil-based pasta.
Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken works great for flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a wonderful substitute and saves on prep!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch. Turkey bacon could be used for a lighter version, or omit it for a vegetarian salad. You could also swap it for cooked pancetta or prosciutto if you want a twist.
Pesto: Homemade pesto is fantastic, but store-bought is completely fine too! If you’re allergic to nuts, use sunflower seeds or skip them for a nut-free version. You can use spinach or arugula in place of basil for a different flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Chicken?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Start by pan-searing the chicken. This method allows for even cooking and helps lock in moisture.
- Season the chicken simply with salt and pepper; you can add garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is your target.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
How Can I Make the Pesto Creamy and Flavorful?
Making a creamy pesto that’s bursting with flavor is simple:
- Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic until finely chopped.
- While blending, slowly add olive oil to emulsify the mixture and get a smooth texture.
- For creaminess, mix in mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Start with a little, then add more based on your preference.
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
With these tips in mind, your creamy chicken bacon pasta salad with pesto is sure to be a hit! Enjoy the deliciousness at your next gathering or as a meal prep option!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta Salad with Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups pasta (orecchiette or small shells work well)
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup creamy pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to cook the pasta and chicken, 10 minutes for prep work, and a bit of time to assemble everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Once crispy, place them on paper towels to drain any excess fat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Prepare the Pesto Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse to blend the ingredients. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Finally, transfer the pesto to a bowl, and stir in the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to create a creamy texture.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, bacon, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped basil, and parsley. Toss gently to mix everything together.
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the creamy pesto sauce over the prepared pasta salad. Toss lightly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Serve:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. For an optional touch, garnish with more fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy chicken bacon pasta salad with the bright herbaceous punch of pesto! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even potlucks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method.
What If I Don’t Have Pine Nuts for the Pesto?
No problem at all! You can substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds. These alternatives still provide a nice nutty flavor and texture to the pesto.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before enjoying it again, as the ingredients may settle. If it seems dry, drizzle a bit of olive oil or additional pesto to freshen it up.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and bacon. You can add extra veggies such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives for added flavor and texture. Adjust the creamy pesto sauce to your liking, and enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad!
