Is there anything better than having a delicious salad waiting for you in the fridge come lunchtime? All too often, I wait until I’m absolutely famished to step away from my desk and that doesn’t always lead to the best meal choices. Having delicious food like this Pesto Chicken Salad prepared ahead of time helps me stay on track and throw together a healthy meal in a matter of minutes. Spoon it over some fresh greens, spread it on a sandwich, or simply dig in with a spoon, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a salad this delicious!

I’m not one to turn up my nose at the classic chicken salad, but I have to admit, this pesto version may be my new favorite. It still takes inspiration from the original with celery, mayo, and red onion. Then, it takes it one step further and adds parmesan cheese, basil, and (of course) pesto. The garlicky and herby pesto flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy mayo and ensures the chicken stays super moist.

I do like to let this salad sit for an hour or two after I make it to really let those flavors develop. Trust me, it’s worth the wait. My partner suggested that we have some of this in the fridge at all times! That’s how much folks love this stuff.

Mix it up in minutes and your lunches will be set for the week. It’s hard to beat that kind of convenience. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that you can make ahead of time then this Pesto Chicken Salad is a must-try.