Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad – A Fresh, Flavorful Meal

Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish that perfectly blends creamy pesto with fresh ingredients. The pasta is tossed with grilled chicken, crisp corn, diced avocado, and crunchy croutons, all coated in a tangy Dijon-mayo dressing. This refreshing pasta salad makes for an excellent lunch, side dish, or even a light dinner. It’s versatile, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress anyone at your next meal.

Why You Will Love This Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is the ideal combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Packed with Protein: The grilled chicken, turkey bacon, and cheese provide a hefty dose of protein, making this salad filling and satisfying.
• Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn, creamy avocado, and crisp lettuce deliver crunch and freshness.
• Homemade Dressing: The simple but flavorful dressing adds a rich and tangy taste to the salad.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it warm or chilled, as a meal or a side, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients for Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

This salad is a delightful combination of high-quality, fresh ingredients, each carefully selected to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this tasty recipe:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup plus 2 tbsp basil pesto – homemade or store-bought
• Red pepper flakes – to taste for a hint of heat
• Kosher salt and black pepper – to taste
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil – for that silky smooth texture in the dressing
• Juice of 1 lemon – for acidity to balance the rich flavors
• ¼ cup tahini or avocado oil mayonnaise – a creamy, smooth dressing base
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – for a sharp, tangy flavor
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – adds complexity and depth
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp and nutty cheese
• 1 lb short-cut pasta (like rotini or penne) – the base of your pasta salad
• 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese – for that mild, melty texture
• 2 cups croutons – for crunch
• 3 cups shredded romaine lettuce – adds freshness
• 4 ears grilled or steamed corn, kernels removed – sweet and juicy corn kernels
• 6 slices turkey bacon – crumbled for a smoky, crispy addition
• 1 avocado – diced to add creaminess

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup tahini or mayonnaise – a rich and creamy base for your dressing
• Olive oil – gives the dressing a smooth consistency
• Lemon juice – for some brightness and acidity
• Dijon mustard – brings a sharp, tangy flavor
• Worcestershire sauce – adds a savory depth
• Grated Parmesan – for an extra hit of flavor

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How to Make Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken with ½ cup pesto, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until it’s lightly charred and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through for even grilling.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a large salad bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, tahini or mayo, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add the hot pasta to the bowl with the dressing, stirring to coat the pasta in the dressing.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Add the cubed cheddar cheese, the remaining 2 tablespoons of pesto, grilled chicken, croutons, shredded romaine lettuce, corn kernels, and crumbled turkey bacon to the pasta bowl. Toss everything together to combine well.

Step 6: Add the Avocado

Lastly, gently fold in the diced avocado. Season the salad with additional salt and black pepper, if needed. The creamy avocado will add a delightful richness to every bite.

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Serving Suggestions for Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

This vibrant salad is so versatile, and you can serve it in different ways depending on your occasion:

• Serve it warm: This dish can be served immediately, giving you a warm, comforting meal.
• Serve it chilled: Let the flavors meld in the fridge for a couple of hours to create a refreshing chilled pasta salad.
• Make it a main dish: With the grilled chicken, cheese, and croutons, this pasta salad is hearty enough to serve as a full meal.
• Serve it as a side: Perfect as a side dish to grilled meats, barbecues, or a summer cookout.

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Health Benefits of Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

This pasta salad isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients and health benefits too:

1. Protein-Packed: The grilled chicken, turkey bacon, and cheese are rich sources of protein that support muscle health and help keep you full longer.
2. Healthy Fats: Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for your skin and brain function.
3. Fiber-Rich: The corn and lettuce are rich in fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
4. Vitamin-Rich: With ingredients like basil, lemon juice, and Parmesan, this salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, boosting your immunity.

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FAQs About Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with any type of short-cut pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or even whole-wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and let the flavors meld together for an even tastier dish.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad will keep its flavor and texture, but the avocado may brown slightly.

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Conclusion

Pesto Chicken, Corn & Avocado Pasta Salad is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meals. With its rich pesto dressing, juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, it brings a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, whether served as a light main course or a side dish, this pasta salad will quickly become a family favorite.

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