Delicious Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe with Avocado & Tomato

Posted on August 11, 2025

The first time I made this chicken pasta salad, the sun was shining bright, and I was craving something fresh and vibrant. Picture this: juicy, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and sweet, ripe tomatoes all mingling in a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors! Honestly, every bite takes me back to those sunny days when a light meal felt like a little slice of heaven.

This Delicious Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato has become a staple in my home, especially during warmer months. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick dinner after a long day. Plus, what I love the most is that it’s packed with nutrients without skimping on taste. You can whip it up in no time, and it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken! Whether you’re serving it to the family or taking it to a BBQ, everyone will be coming back for seconds.

So, let’s dive into why you absolutely need to try this recipe. You won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken pasta salad is a winner for several reasons. First off, it’s a complete meal in a bowl. You’ve got your protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and carbs from the pasta – all in one delicious dish! Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy grocery trips; you probably have everything in your kitchen already!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer picnic, a potluck, or a cozy dinner at home, this salad fits right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about this dish—it’s hard not to love it!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flavors and textures is simply next-level comfort food.

What makes this recipe stand out from the rest? It’s all about the creamy avocado and the freshness of the tomatoes. The avocado adds a rich, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and the bright acidity of the tomatoes. Trust me, this isn’t just another pasta salad; it’s a vibrant mix that makes you feel good with every bite! It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes, savoring each flavor and remembering why you love cooking.

And let’s not forget that it’s also great for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. How convenient is that?

Ingredients Needed

This chicken pasta salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces whole wheat pasta (cooked and cooled)
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; leftover rotisserie chicken works great)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved; use a mix of colors for a pop of vibrancy)
1 ripe avocado (diced; adds creaminess and healthy fats)
1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped; for a bit of crunch and flavor)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped; adds freshness)
1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand! For example, if you don’t have whole wheat pasta, any pasta will do. And if you’re not a fan of cilantro, swap it out for parsley or omit it altogether. It’s all about making this dish your own!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious chicken pasta salad:

Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
Colander: To drain the pasta.
Large mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.
Sharp knife: For chopping the veggies and chicken.
Cutting board: To protect your countertops while cutting.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a fancy kitchen gadget—this recipe can be made with basic tools. I’ve made this salad using just a pot and a bowl, and it turned out fantastic every time!

Preparation Method

Now, let’s get to the fun part—preparing this amazing chicken pasta salad! Follow these simple steps:

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down.
Prepare the Chicken: If you’re using leftover chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking fresh chicken, grill or bake it until fully cooked, then let it cool before cutting.
Chop the Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and chop the red onion and cilantro.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to mash the avocado!
Serve: You can serve this chicken pasta salad immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. It tastes even better after a little time in the fridge!

And there you have it! A bright, flavorful chicken pasta salad ready to impress your friends and family!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to help you nail this chicken pasta salad:

Cook Pasta Perfectly: Always add salt to the boiling water to flavor the pasta. Don’t forget to test it a minute or two before the package time to avoid overcooking!
Cool Pasta Quickly: Rinsing the pasta under cold water not only cools it down but also prevents it from becoming sticky.
Avocado Care: To keep your avocado from browning, only add it to the salad right before serving. If you need to store leftovers, keep the avocado separate.
Flavor Boost: Feel free to add some spices or herbs to the dressing, like cumin or chili flakes, for an extra punch!
Storage: This salad lasts in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Variations & Adaptations

This chicken pasta salad is incredibly versatile! Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu for a hearty plant-based option.
Pasta Swap: Use gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies like zucchini or carrots for a lighter option.
Flavor Additions: Toss in some roasted bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist!
Seasonal Veggies: In the summer, add fresh corn or diced cucumber; in the fall, consider roasted butternut squash.

Get creative with what you have on hand, and don’t hesitate to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. Here are some serving suggestions:

Presentation: Serve it in a big bowl and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a pop of color.
Pair It Up: This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the avocado fresh if you plan to have leftovers!
Reheating: If you’ve added chicken, it can be gently reheated in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the avocado!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This chicken pasta salad not only tastes great, but it’s packed with nutritional benefits:

Protein-Packed: The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Healthy Fats: Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help keep you feeling full.
Vitamins & Minerals: Fresh tomatoes and cilantro are loaded with vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function.
Dietary Considerations: This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using appropriate pasta and is suitable for various diets.

Conclusion

This Delicious Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado and Tomato is truly a game-changer! It’s quick to prepare, beautifully vibrant, and bursting with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. I love how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs, making it perfect for any occasion.

If you try out this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to make it your own with your favorite ingredients. Let’s share the joy of cooking together! Don’t forget to drop a comment below or share your versions on social media. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta alternatives available in stores.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado separate if possible.

Can I add other veggies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you love, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinach.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas, tofu, or even diced hard-boiled eggs work great!

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