Chicken pesto pasta salad

Lunch

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 35.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		377.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		18.9 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	4.7 g	23%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.2 mg	15%
Sodium		566.0 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrates		33.0 g	12%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	1.9 g
protein		23.6 g	47%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.2 mg	3%
Iron		1.9 mg	10%
Potassium		283.0 mg	6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 170 cal (42.9%)

Protein: 94 cal (23.8%)

Carbs: 132 cal (33.3%)

About Chicken pesto pasta salad

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is a flavorful dish combining lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a pesto sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Originating in Italian cuisine, this dish offers a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It provides essential nutrients such as protein from chicken, dietary fiber from vegetables, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil. A typical serving can range from 350-450 calories depending on ingredient proportions, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal or side dish.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from chicken, which supports muscle repair and overall body function.
• Contains vitamin K and antioxidants like lutein from basil, which are important for bone health and reducing oxidative stress.
• Provides monounsaturated fats from olive oil, which are known to support heart health and help manage cholesterol levels.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, tree nuts (pine nuts), dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, mediterranean diets

Not suitable for: Vegans, individuals with nut allergies, gluten-free diets unless gluten-free pasta is used

Selection and Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, add pesto just before serving if storing for more than 24 hours.

Common Questions About Chicken pesto pasta salad Nutrition

Is Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad high in protein?

Yes, Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is generally high in protein due to the inclusion of chicken, which provides around 25-30 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. The exact protein content will depend on the quantity of chicken used, but it typically offers a significant amount of protein for muscle repair and overall health.

Can I eat Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad on a keto diet?

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is typically not keto-friendly due to the pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. However, you can make a keto variation by substituting the pasta with spiralized zucchini, shirataki noodles, or cauliflower rice to keep the dish low-carb while still enjoying the flavors.

What are the potential health benefits of Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad?

This dish can offer a range of health benefits, including lean protein from the chicken to support muscle health and healthy fats from pesto, often made with olive oil, which supports heart health. However, traditional pasta can be high in simple carbs, so moderation is key for managing blood sugar and energy levels.

What is the recommended portion size for Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad?

A typical serving size for Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is about 1 to 1.5 cups, which usually contains 300-400 calories depending on the recipe. Pairing this portion with a side of leafy greens or vegetables can make for a more balanced meal.

How does Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad compare to regular pasta salad?

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is often more nutritious than regular pasta salad because it includes a source of protein (chicken) and healthy fats from pesto. Traditional pasta salads often rely on mayonnaise-based dressings, which can be higher in unhealthy fats. Pesto also provides antioxidants from herbs like basil, making it a more wholesome choice.

Data Sources & Scientific References