Chicken Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, basil pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella, and pasta in a refreshing and satisfying dish suitable for lunches, gatherings, or relaxed dinners.
Ingredients
12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mozzarella pearls
1/2 cup basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain pasta and rinse briefly with cool water.
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Allow pasta to cool completely.
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Place cooled pasta in a large bowl with diced chicken.
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Add halved tomatoes and mozzarella pearls.
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Spoon pesto over the mixture and drizzle olive oil on top.
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Toss gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
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Season with salt and black pepper.
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Add torn basil leaves and toss lightly.
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Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad before serving.