Pesto Chicken Salad – Easy Low-Carb Lunch Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that delivers both bold flavor and total ease. That’s exactly what this Pesto Chicken Salad brings to the table. With a creamy, herbaceous pesto base, tender chunks of chicken, a bit of crunch from celery, and a rich finish of Parmesan cheese, this salad proves that quick and healthy lunches can still taste amazing.

I first whipped up this recipe on a hectic weekday when all I had was some leftover rotisserie chicken and half a jar of store-bought pesto. I tossed in a spoonful of mayo, chopped some celery for texture, sprinkled in a handful of shredded Parmesan, and just like that, I had a lunch that felt indulgent but was actually packed with protein and low in carbs. Since then, it’s become one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something fast, filling, and flavorful without having to cook a thing.

Whether you’re packing lunch for work, doing meal prep for the week, or just need a no-fuss dinner, this pesto chicken salad is endlessly customizable and ready in just 10 minutes. It works beautifully in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or simply eaten with a fork straight from the bowl. And the best part? You likely have most of the ingredients in your fridge already.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pesto chicken salad isn’t just a quick meal—it’s a flavor-packed powerhouse with a creamy texture, herby undertones, and plenty of savory depth. It’s incredibly easy to pull together and perfect for anyone following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free lifestyle.

Here’s what makes it a must-try:

• Super fast prep: With only three main steps, you’ll have this salad ready to serve in under 10 minutes.
• Low-carb and keto-friendly: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad won’t spike your blood sugar and will keep you full for hours.
• Customizable ingredients: Whether you use homemade pesto and freshly cooked chicken or reach for rotisserie chicken and store-bought pesto, it turns out delicious every time.
• Meal prep-friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• No cooking required: Using pre-cooked chicken means this dish requires zero time on the stove or in the oven.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it in a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce, toss it into a salad, or scoop it on top of pasta or rice.

Plus, the flavor profile is rich and indulgent thanks to the Parmesan and pesto, yet refreshing and light because of the celery and creamy texture. It’s one of those meals that somehow feels both hearty and healthy.

Health Benefits

Despite how rich and creamy this pesto chicken salad tastes, it’s surprisingly nutrient-dense and supportive of various healthy eating goals.

Here’s a closer look at its health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken breast provides lean, complete protein that supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling satisfied.
• Low in carbs: This recipe is keto-friendly, making it ideal for low-carb or diabetic diets. It keeps your blood sugar stable while delivering a satisfying meal.
• Heart-healthy fats: Pesto and mayonnaise provide fats that help with vitamin absorption and hormonal balance, especially if you use olive oil-based mayo and pesto.
• Calcium-rich: Parmesan cheese adds a calcium boost, which is great for bone health.
• Gut-friendly fiber: Celery adds a little fiber and crunch, aiding digestion and keeping things balanced.
• No refined sugars or grains: Perfect for those avoiding processed carbs and sugars, especially on a keto or whole-foods diet.

By skipping high-carb sandwich bread or pasta, this chicken salad helps you hit your nutrition goals without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None (assuming chicken is pre-cooked)
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: Serves 4

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Net Carbs: 2g

This salad fits right into most low-carb, keto, or balanced eating plans while offering delicious flavor in every bite.

Ingredients List

To make this Pesto Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few simple ingredients—most of which you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded – You can use leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poached chicken for convenience.
• ⅓ cup basil pesto – Store-bought is totally fine (Trader Joe’s makes a great one), or you can use homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
• ¼ cup mayonnaise – Choose an olive oil-based or avocado mayo for a healthier fat profile.
• 2 ribs celery, finely chopped – Adds freshness and crunch.
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and a salty, nutty flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Optional add-ins include a squeeze of lemon juice, chopped walnuts for crunch, or halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie, simply chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking fresh chicken, boil, grill, or bake it until it’s fully cooked and then let it cool before shredding.

2. Mix the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine the pesto and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. This forms the creamy, flavorful base for your salad.

3. Assemble the Salad

Add the chopped chicken, celery, and shredded Parmesan to the pesto-mayo mixture. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add a dash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.

That’s it! Your pesto chicken salad is ready to enjoy immediately or store for later.

How to Serve

One of the best things about this pesto chicken salad is its versatility. It works well for casual lunches, meal prepping, or as part of a picnic or buffet spread. Here are a few delicious ways to serve it:

• Spoon it into lettuce wraps for a light and low-carb meal.
• Spread it between slices of whole grain or keto bread for a hearty sandwich.
• Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a protein-packed salad bowl.
• Add it to pasta or cooked rice for a warm, pesto-infused dish.
• Enjoy it on its own with a fork for a simple, no-fuss meal.

Pairing Suggestions

To turn your pesto chicken salad into a complete meal, try pairing it with:

• Caprese Pasta Salad – The basil and tomato flavors complement the pesto beautifully.
• Chickpea Salad – Adds a fiber boost and some Mediterranean flair.
• Greek Salad – Cucumber, olives, and feta provide contrast and texture.
• Roasted Vegetables – A warm and earthy side to balance the creamy chicken salad.
• Low-carb crackers or pita chips – Great for scooping and snacking.

A light sparkling water with lemon or a sugar-free iced tea rounds it out nicely.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad stays fresh for up to 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute any separated dressing.

Freezing:
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as the mayo and pesto don’t thaw well and may separate. For best results, prepare only what you’ll eat within a few days.

Reheating:
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your pesto chicken salad turns out perfectly every time, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Using dry chicken: Dry chicken makes the salad less enjoyable. Use juicy rotisserie or freshly poached chicken for best texture.
• Overloading on pesto: While flavorful, too much pesto can overpower the dish. Stick to the measured amount or adjust gradually.
• Skipping the salt and pepper: Even with flavorful ingredients, a touch of salt and pepper enhances the final taste.
• Using watery pesto: If your store-bought pesto is too oily or runny, balance it with a bit more Parmesan or an extra spoonful of mayo.
• Not chopping the celery finely enough: You want small, even pieces so the texture blends seamlessly with the chicken.

Pro Tips

Here are a few expert tips to take your pesto chicken salad to the next level:

• Use fresh pesto when possible – Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts adds a vibrant, fresh flavor.
• Add lemon zest or juice – A little citrus brightens the whole dish and cuts through the richness.
• Toast the Parmesan – For extra flavor, lightly toast the shredded cheese before adding it in.
• Try different nuts – A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts gives extra crunch and flavor depth.
• Use a food processor for chopping – It speeds things up and creates an even texture for large batches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs are slightly fattier and more flavorful. Just make sure they’re fully cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Is pesto chicken salad keto-friendly?
Definitely. With only 3g of total carbs and 2g of net carbs per serving, it fits well into a keto or low-carb diet.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Just skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored properly, this salad keeps well for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt lightens the dish and adds extra protein. Use plain, full-fat yogurt for the best texture.

Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the mayo and pesto can separate when thawed.

Can I add veggies?
Yes. Try adding halved cherry tomatoes, spinach, or arugula for extra nutrition and color.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Can I serve this warm?
While this salad is typically served cold, you can gently warm the chicken before mixing if you prefer a warmer meal.

What’s the best pesto to use?
Trader Joe’s Genovese pesto is a great store-bought option, but homemade always offers the freshest flavor.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Pesto Chicken Salad is everything you could want in a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. It’s rich in flavor, full of satisfying textures, and ready in just minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, packing school lunches, or just need something easy after a long day, this recipe delivers every single time.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try. Let me know how it turns out for you—leave a comment with your favorite add-ins or serving ideas. And if you share your creation on social media, don’t forget to tag me. I can’t wait to see how you make this easy, flavorful salad your own.

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