This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is packed with tasty bits of chicken, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes. It’s colorful and fresh, making it perfect for lunch or dinner!
Honestly, who can resist the magic of avocado? I always add a bit of lime juice to keep it bright and zesty. It’s a salad that feels like a hug! 🥑💕
Making this salad is super easy! Just cook the pasta, toss in the chicken and veggies, and dress it up. It’s great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This recipe calls for rotini, a fun, corkscrew-shaped pasta that holds sauce well. You can swap it for any pasta like penne or fusilli, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.
Chicken: Shredded chicken is key for protein and flavor. I love using rotisserie chicken for ease, but grilled chicken works great too. You could also use tofu for a vegetarian option or canned chickpeas for a protein boost.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess that enhances the salad. If avocados aren’t on hand, mashed peas or Greek yogurt can mimic that smooth, rich texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems bring a burst of flavor. If you’re short on cherry tomatoes, try regular tomatoes, diced. Sun-dried tomatoes can add a different flavor if you’re feeling adventurous!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brightens up the dish. If you can’t find it, try dried basil or even some chopped parsley for a different herb twist.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta for a salad needs a little care to prevent it from becoming mushy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rotini and cook until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Check the package for exact times.
- Once done, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. This helps it keep that perfect texture.
- Let it cool thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients.
Doing this will ensure your pasta salad is refreshing and enjoyable! I’ve found that this cooling step makes a big difference, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach or mixed greens, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy chicken pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a fresh meal any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This step is important to stop the cooking process and prevent mushiness!
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped spinach, and fresh basil. This colorful mix will not only taste amazing but also look delightful!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing adds a zesty flavor to your salad. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste!
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated. Be careful not to mash the avocado—just mix until combined!
5. Season to Taste:
Give your salad a taste and add any additional salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy the freshness of the ingredients coming together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together nicely. Either way, it’s a delicious and healthy choice!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Rotini?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier alternative that adds more fiber to your salad. Just keep in mind that cooking times might differ slightly, so check the package instructions for al dente cooking times.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Simple! You can leave out the chicken and substitute it with chickpeas or some diced tofu for added protein. Also, consider adding more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers to enhance the flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the pasta salad up to a day in advance. Just dress it right before serving to keep the avocado fresh and prevent browning. If you make it early, store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture of the avocado, you might want to add a squeeze of lemon juice before sealing the container. When ready to eat, give it a good stir!
