Chicken Avocado Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Healthy

Yield: 6 servings | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 10 min

This light yet satisfying Chicken Avocado Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner that’s packed with protein and veggies!


Ingredients

Salad:

  • 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
  • 1 pound cooked rotini or similar pasta, chilled
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine the Salad Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, red onion, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.
  2. Prepare the Dressing
    In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
  3. Assemble the Salad
    Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  4. Serve and Enjoy
    Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful dish, or refrigerate for later. This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Tip: To keep your avocado from browning, toss it gently in a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad.

Perfect for: Busy weeknights, potlucks, picnics, or meal prep!