A new favorite for a packed or picnic lunch. Switch up your traditional chicken salad with by adding some delicious pesto.
This pesto chicken salad comes together in just a few minutes. Making it the perfect meal prep recipe. If you pick up a rotisserie chicken or have some left over chicken shred it up and add a bit of pesto and mayo. So easy and so delicious.
The key to this recipe, as with any recipe with few ingredients, is making sure you have the best quality ingredients. I think the flavors really compliment each other well in this recipe. I’m not a huge fan of mayo but using a good quality one really adds to the texture and flavor of this recipe. 
I love how the pest adds a wonderful depth of flavor. It’s not overpowering in a way that pesto can sometimes be. I used Trader Joe’s walnut, kale and basil pesto. It’s so good!
I served this pesto chicken salad on toasted gluten free bread. I also love this served over salad. Making this recipe on a Sunday makes for wonderful lunches throughout the week.
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Pesto Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Creamy pesto chicken salad, served in a lovely croissant, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) high-quality mayo
- 3 tablespoons pesto
- 2 croissants
- A handful of arugula and pine nuts
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve on toasted bread or a croissant with some arugula and top with some fresh pine nuts.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade pesto instead of store-bought.
- Add a diced red onion or bell pepper for extra texture and flavor.
- To make ahead, prepare the chicken salad up to 2 days in advance; the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 80
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chicken should I use for the Pesto Chicken Salad Sandwich?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
Is it necessary to use a specific brand of pesto for this recipe?
While you can use any pesto, the recipe recommends Trader Joe’s walnut, kale, and basil pesto for its balanced flavor.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the Pesto Chicken Salad Sandwich?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or an avocado-based spread, but using a good quality mayonnaise enhances the overall texture and flavor.
