If you’re craving a vibrant, delicious, and nourishing meal that comes together in a snap, this Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute winner. It perfectly balances tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a zesty, herb-infused dressing. Every bite bursts with fresh flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping things light and wholesome. Whether for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a potluck, this salad brings an irresistible combination of health and happiness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the dish. From the protein-packed chicken to the creamy avocados and bright cherry tomatoes, every element enhances the flavor, texture, and color in its unique way.
- 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced: Adds creamy richness and healthy fats to the salad.
- 1 pound cooked rotini pasta, chilled: Perfect shape to hold onto the dressing and ingredients.
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion: Provides a mild, tangy crunch that livens up the salad.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet, they give vibrant color and freshness.
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil: Infuses a fragrant herbaceous note that makes the salad taste fresh and summery.
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar: Adds the perfect tang to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the Mediterranean vibe.
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Provides smooth, fruity richness and ties the dressing together.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Start by gathering your cooked chicken, chilled pasta, and fresh produce. Gently combine the shredded chicken, rotini pasta, chopped red onion, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil in a large bowl. The key here is to mix carefully so you don’t mash the avocado but still achieve a well-distributed medley of flavors.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a jar or small container with a tight lid, pour in the white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, extra virgin olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Seal the jar tightly and shake it vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and all the ingredients are blended beautifully. This simple vinaigrette brings a bright, tangy punch that perfectly complements the creamy avocado and savory chicken.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the freshly made dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure that every bite is coated with the flavorful dressing. Taste, then adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a little more salt or pepper to bring the dish to perfection.
Step 4: Serve or Chill
You can serve this salad immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors straight away. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate it for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop even deeper. It’s fantastic either way, but letting it chill adds a wonderful harmony to the dish.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a few torn basil leaves on top can elevate the presentation and add a burst of fresh aroma. You might also add a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch if you love a bit of textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This salad is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with crusty whole grain bread or pita for a more filling meal. For a lighter side, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad to keep things fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, serve this salad in individual mason jars layered with the dressing at the bottom for a fun “mix yourself” experience. Alternatively, present it on a large platter with colorful edible flowers for a stunning, vibrant centerpiece perfect for summer gatherings or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, especially to keep the avocado from browning too quickly, consume within 1-2 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezing
Due to the fresh avocado and the delicate texture of the salad, freezing is not recommended. The ingredients do not freeze well and may become mushy or separate when thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not advised, as it will affect the creamy avocado and fresh vegetables’ texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini works great because of its shape, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even small shells—just make sure it’s cooked al dente so it holds up well in the salad.
How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?
Using ripe but firm avocados helps, plus mixing it gently with acidic dressing slows oxidation. If prepping ahead, adding avocado last and storing the salad tightly covered helps keep it fresh longer.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas, grilled tofu, or even hearty roasted vegetables to maintain protein and keep the salad delicious and filling.
What if I don’t have white wine vinegar?
You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice for a similar tangy brightness in the dressing, though the flavor will slightly change.
Can this salad be made ahead of time for a picnic?
Definitely! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. This recipe is picnic-friendly and easy to transport.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe that makes it a go-to for busy days or special occasions. Its bright, fresh ingredients paired with a simple homemade dressing create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (mainly for pasta cooking if not pre-cooked)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A light and healthy chicken pasta salad combining tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, fresh cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all tossed in a tangy white wine vinegar and Italian seasoning dressing. Perfect as a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad can be served immediately or chilled to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 1 pound cooked rotini pasta, chilled
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped basil
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Gather and prepare all the main salad components including shredding or chopping the cooked chicken breasts, dicing the ripe avocados, cooking and chilling the rotini pasta, chopping the red onion, halving the cherry tomatoes, and finely chopping the fresh basil.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the shredded chicken, chilled rotini pasta, chopped red onion, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and freshly chopped basil. Mix carefully to avoid mashing the avocado while ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Make the dressing: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified and thoroughly combined.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently yet thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary with additional salt and pepper.
- Serve or chill: Serve the chicken pasta salad immediately for the freshest texture and flavor, or cover and refrigerate for later. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Be gentle when mixing to avoid mashing the avocado.
- The salad can be served immediately or chilled for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Adjust seasoning of dressing and salad according to taste preference.
- To keep the salad fresh, add avocado just before serving if preparing ahead.
