This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful and tasty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and pasta. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s light yet filling!
Honestly, who can resist that creamy avocado? I love how it makes everything so rich without being heavy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for busy days!
Whenever I make this salad, I toss in some extra veggies for crunch. It’s a fun way to use up what I have in the fridge, and it always turns out delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini pasta: This spiral shape holds onto dressing well! You can swap it for any pasta you like, such as fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for an extra nutritional boost.
Chicken: Cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. For a lighter option, try using grilled chicken breast or even leftover baked chicken from another meal!
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you’re worried about browning, sprinkle some lemon juice on it after dicing. You can also use frozen avocado if fresh isn’t available.
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they make this salad pop! If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes or even chopped regular tomatoes will work, but they may not be as sweet.
Red onion: For a milder flavor, try green onions or chives. If you prefer no onion taste, you can skip it altogether.
Fresh basil: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, you could use dried basil, but reduce the amount to one tablespoon.
How Can I Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it just right is key to a great salad. You want it tender but still firm – that’s called al dente. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Start checking a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Once it’s al dente, drain it quickly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and chill it down.
Taking these steps ensures your pasta won’t turn mushy in the salad, keeping it nice and firm for that delightful bite!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to allocate about 10 minutes to cook the pasta and chop all the fresh ingredients. After mixing everything together, it can be served immediately, or you can refrigerate it for up to an hour for better flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This typically means boiling it for about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
2. Mixing the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. Gently mix them together so that everything is evenly distributed but be careful not to mash the avocado.
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing will add a delicious flavor, so make sure it’s mixed well!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over the mixed pasta salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Adding Fresh Basil:
Finally, add the chopped fresh basil to the salad. Toss lightly again to distribute the basil throughout the salad for extra flavor.
6. Serving Suggestions:
Now, your healthy chicken pasta salad is ready! You can serve it right away or refrigerate it for up to an hour to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your tasty and nutritious meal!
Can I Replace the Pasta with a Gluten-Free Option?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties such as brown rice, chickpea, or quinoa pasta. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and they’ll work beautifully in this salad!
What Can I Use Instead of Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or need a substitute due to allergies, you can try using diced cucumber or bell peppers for a crunchy texture. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of shredded cheese like feta for creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, to keep the avocado from browning, it’s best to add it fresh when serving. If you have leftovers with avocado, try adding a splash of lemon juice to help preserve its color!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep this salad ahead of time! Just mix all the ingredients except the avocado and basil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the avocado and basil to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
