This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of chicken, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes. It’s super fresh and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Every bite feels like a party in your mouth, thanks to the colorful ingredients. I love making this salad ahead of time—it’s great for busy days and tastes even better chilled! 🥑🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like rotini for its ability to hold onto the dressing and flavors, but feel free to switch it up with penne or fusilli, which work equally well.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is a great protein source. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Avocado: Make sure you use a ripe avocado for creaminess. If you’re out of avocados, you might consider using Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without the fat.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a burst of sweetness. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can try using diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
Fresh Basil: This herb adds freshness. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work, but the flavor won’t be as strong. Try adding a bit of parsley or cilantro as alternatives.
How to Cook Pasta to Perfection?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but timing and technique matter. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with plenty of salted water; it should taste like the sea.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until al dente—this means it should still have a bit of bite to it.
- When done, drain it in a colander, but be careful not to rinse it unless you’re making a cold salad. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauces cling.
Trust me, following these steps will lead to perfectly cooked pasta every time!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad can be assembled in about 15 minutes. If you choose to refrigerate it for extra flavor, plan on chilling it for 30 minutes to an hour. Overall, it’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a fresh side at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it with cold water. This cooling step will stop the cooking process and help keep the pasta from getting mushy. Set aside to let it cool completely.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, add the cooled pasta, shredded chicken breast, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh basil. This combination of ingredients is what makes the salad colorful and full of flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing will add a zesty flavor that brings all the ingredients together.
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much, as you want to keep those lovely chunks. Your salad should be vibrant and well-coated with the dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. You can serve the pasta salad right away, or you can refrigerate it for 30 minutes to an hour so the flavors meld together even more beautifully.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your healthy chicken pasta salad as a refreshing main dish or a delightful side. It’s fantastic chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this deliciously healthy meal anytime!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for this salad, you can use any short pasta you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it remains al dente.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re allergic to avocados or don’t have any on hand, try using Greek yogurt for a creamy texture, or simply omit it. You can also add diced cucumbers or extra cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
You can store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again, as the dressing may have settled.
Is This Salad Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. Make a batch at the start of the week for quick lunches or dinners. Just remember to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and green!
