Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons is a vibrant and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal. This dish brings together the savory goodness of pesto chicken with the fresh flavors of colorful veggie ribbons, creating a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s not just healthy but also incredibly easy to prepare!

Why Make This Recipe

Choosing to make Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons means you’re opting for a meal that’s both delightful and nutritious. With the combination of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and the zesty touch of lemon basil vinaigrette, you’ll enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. Eating with the rainbow can be fun and fulfilling!

How to Make Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons

Ingredients:

Pesto chicken breast, sliced
Veggie ribbons (carrot, zucchini, beet, yellow squash)
Marinated mozzarella pearls
Sea salt flakes
Lemon basil vinaigrette

Directions:

Twirl the vibrant veggie ribbons onto a plate to create a beautiful base for your dish.
Nestle the juicy slices of pesto chicken right in the center, adding both protein and flavor.
Scatter the marinated mozzarella pearls over the top for a delightful cheesy element.
Drizzle the lemon basil vinaigrette all over everything to add an extra zing and bring all the flavors together.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons

Serve this colorful dish as a main entrée with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. It’s perfect for meal prep as well—just make sure your ingredients stay fresh. Consider presenting it on a wide, shallow plate to highlight the striking colors of the veggies and chicken, or serve in individual bowls for a more casual gathering.

How to Store Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons

To store any leftovers, place the dish in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold in a salad.

Tips to Make Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons

Choose Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your veggies, the better the taste, so opt for those that are seasonal.
Make Your Own Pesto: If you have time, making homemade pesto adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures you know exactly what’s in it.
Experiment with Vinaigrettes: Don’t be afraid to try different dressings or homemade vinaigrettes to change up the flavor profile!

Variation

If you want to switch things up, try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option. You can also play with the vegetables; bell peppers, asparagus, or even spinach can add exciting new textures and flavors to this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving.

2. What can I substitute if I don’t like certain veggies?
Feel free to substitute any veggies you prefer. Broccoli, snap peas, or even shredded cabbage are great alternatives!

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons is naturally gluten-free as long as your pesto and vinaigrette do not contain any gluten ingredients. Always check labels to be sure!

Pesto Chicken & Rainbow Veggie Ribbons

A vibrant and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal featuring pesto chicken and fresh veggie ribbons, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Serving Size servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Veggies

2 pieces pesto chicken breast, sliced
2 cups veggie ribbons (carrot, zucchini, beet, yellow squash) Use a mix of colorful vegetables for presentation.
1 cup marinated mozzarella pearls
to taste sea salt flakes

Dressing

2 tablespoons lemon basil vinaigrette Can use store-bought or homemade.

Instructions

Preparation

Twirl the vibrant veggie ribbons onto a plate to create a beautiful base for your dish.
Nestle the juicy slices of pesto chicken right in the center, adding both protein and flavor.
Scatter the marinated mozzarella pearls over the top for a delightful cheesy element.
Drizzle the lemon basil vinaigrette all over everything to add an extra zing and bring all the flavors together.

Notes

For best results, choose fresh ingredients and consider making your own pesto for enhanced flavor. This dish is great for meal prep and should be consumed within 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container.