This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy avocado complements the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, while fresh basil adds a fragrant touch to every bite. Whole-grain pasta and tender chicken make it a balanced, satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
Perfect for a summer gathering, potluck, or quick weeknight meal, this pasta salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or using gluten-free pasta. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser while still being incredibly easy to prepare.
Full Recipe:
- 2 cups whole-grain pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the whole-grain pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until everything is well-coated.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before serving for a more refreshing dish.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil
If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome, delicious, and versatile dish that fits into any meal plan, look no further than this Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil. Bursting with fresh flavors and packed with nutrients, this salad is the perfect combination of indulgence and nutrition. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, or an easy meal-prep option, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken pasta salad is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s what makes it a favorite:
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber from whole-grain pasta, this salad hits all the marks for a balanced diet.
- Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The combination of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.
- Customizable to Your Preferences: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Gluten-free pasta? No problem. Extra veggies? Go for it!
- Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home, hosting a summer BBQ, or planning your weekly meal prep, this recipe is versatile enough to shine in any setting.
The Nutritional Benefits of This Salad
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Avocado: Loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados also provide essential vitamins like potassium, vitamin E, and folate.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes help protect against inflammation and support overall health.
- Whole-Grain Pasta: A fantastic source of complex carbs and dietary fiber, whole-grain pasta provides sustained energy and aids in digestion.
- Basil: More than just a flavor enhancer, basil offers anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants.
Tips for Making the Perfect Salad
To make sure your Chicken Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, ripe avocado, and juicy tomatoes make all the difference. Opt for in-season produce whenever possible for the best flavors.
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so make sure to cook it just until al dente for the ideal texture.
- Toss Gently: Avocado can be delicate, so be careful not to mash it when mixing. A gentle toss ensures all ingredients are evenly coated without losing their texture.
- Chill Before Serving: While this salad can be enjoyed immediately, letting it chill for 20–30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Customize the Dressing: The olive oil and lemon dressing is simple and light, but you can enhance it with a dash of balsamic vinegar, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This salad can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with other dishes:
- Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread for an added crunch.
- Soup: Pair with a light vegetable or tomato soup for a comforting yet balanced meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complement the freshness of the salad with smoky, grilled zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
- Refreshing Beverages: Lemon water, iced tea, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc are excellent drink choices to accompany this dish.
Meal Prep and Storage
One of the best things about this Chicken Pasta Salad is how well it works for meal prep. Here’s how to make it last:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance, but keep the dressing and avocado separate until just before serving to prevent sogginess and browning.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re packing it for lunch, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the avocado to keep it fresh.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating.
How to Customize This Recipe
One of the most appealing aspects of this salad is how easily it can be tailored to your taste or dietary needs:
- Make it Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or grilled tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta made from lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa for a gluten-free dish.
- Add More Veggies: Throw in some cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for extra crunch and color.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Switch the Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, turkey, or even salmon to switch things up.
When to Serve This Salad
This salad is as versatile as it gets, making it suitable for a variety of occasions:
- Weeknight Dinners: A quick and healthy option for busy evenings.
- Potluck or Picnic: Easy to transport and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Lunchbox Hero: Perfect for meal-prepping lunches for work or school.
- Light Dinner Parties: Serve it as a side dish or main course for casual gatherings.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets this recipe apart from other pasta salads is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the avocado, the tangy brightness of the lemon dressing, and the herbaceous aroma of fresh basil create a harmony that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is packed with nourishing ingredients, making it a win-win for health-conscious eaters and flavor enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, and Basil is more than just a salad—it’s a complete meal that brings together nutrition, flavor, and convenience in one bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a nutritious meal-prep option, or a vibrant dish to share with friends and family, this recipe checks all the boxes. Its versatility, fresh ingredients, and simplicity make it a must-try for anyone seeking to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
Make it your own, enjoy its endless customization possibilities, and savor the satisfaction of a dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!