Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s as vibrant as it is nutritious? Say hello to the Pesto Chicken Mason Jar Salad! This delightful Italian-inspired dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a convenient way to enjoy a fresh salad on the go. With layers of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy pesto, this salad is perfect for meal prep or a picnic treat. Ready to impress your friends and family with a salad that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful? Keep reading to discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by cooking and shredding it thoroughly. If using leftover chicken, ensure it's at room temperature and well-shredded.
- Wash and chop cherry tomatoes into halves. Dice cucumber into small, uniform cubes to ensure even distribution in the salad.
- Select clean, wide-mouth mason jars for layering. The order of ingredients is crucial for maintaining freshness.
- Begin layering by first adding 2-3 tablespoons of pesto sauce at the bottom of each mason jar, ensuring it covers the base completely.
- Carefully add diced cucumber as the next layer, creating a barrier between the pesto and other ingredients.
- Add shredded chicken on top of the cucumber, distributing evenly across the jar.
- Sprinkle halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken layer, creating a colorful presentation.
- Add mixed greens as the final layer, filling the jar to the top but leaving slight room for movement.
- Finish by sprinkling grated parmesan cheese over the mixed greens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, using a light hand to avoid over-seasoning.
- Seal mason jars tightly with lids and refrigerate until ready to serve. Best consumed within 24-48 hours.
- When ready to eat, shake the jar vigorously to distribute pesto and mix ingredients, then pour onto a plate or bowl.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Organic vegetables and homemade pesto can elevate your salad to a whole new level.
- Layer Wisely: The order of ingredients matters! Start with pesto at the bottom to prevent the greens from wilting, and use cucumber as a barrier to keep the chicken from getting soggy.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste.
- Meal Prep: Make several jars at once for easy lunches throughout the week. Just remember to consume them within 24-48 hours for the freshest taste.
- Shake It Up: When you're ready to eat, give the jar a good shake to mix the ingredients and distribute the pesto evenly before serving.
- Perfect Portions: This recipe yields 2 servings, but it’s easy to double or triple for larger gatherings or family meals.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 100mg
