This Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of chicken, avocado, and juicy tomatoes. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how creamy the avocado makes it feel without extra calories. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—you can use leftover chicken! Who doesn’t love a good time-saver in the kitchen?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta type holds dressing well, but you can swap it for whole wheat, gluten-free, or other short pasta like fusilli or penne if you prefer.
Cooked Chicken: I find rotisserie chicken super handy. You can also use grilled chicken or leftovers from another meal, which saves time!
Avocado: The creaminess of avocado adds a lovely texture. If you’re out, you could try using cubed tofu for a plant-based option or just leave it out if you prefer a lighter salad.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If unavailable, chopped regular tomatoes will work too. You might also consider sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Red Onion: For a milder taste, use green onions. If you prefer less bite, soak chopped onions in cold water for a few minutes before adding.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Making the perfect pasta for salad is crucial. You want it al dente—cooked but still firm, so it won’t turn mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
- Add about a teaspoon of salt to boiling water before adding the pasta to enhance flavor.
- Check the pasta a minute or two before the package’s cooking time. It should have a slight bite when you chew it.
- Once done, drain it, and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. This helps keep the pasta in good shape for your salad!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad With Avocado and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Base Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach or basil, roughly chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: additional fresh herbs (basil or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy chicken pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you choose to refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle, the total time will be about 45 minutes. It’s a quick and refreshing dish perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to let the excess water drain off.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and roughly chopped spinach or basil. Mix these ingredients together gently so you don’t mash the avocado!
3. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything evenly without breaking the avocado pieces.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until it’s well combined and slightly thickened. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add a little more salt or pepper if you like!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your pasta salad right away, or cover it and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together for a tastier experience. If desired, garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Just choose your favorite gluten-free rotini or other pasta variety. Follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try swapping the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. For a lighter protein, canned tuna or shrimp are also great alternatives! Just drain and rinse any canned options well before adding.
How to Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious. To refresh the salad, toss in a little extra lemon juice and olive oil when serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers, cucumber, or corn for extra crunch and flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even mixing!
