### Fresh & Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, & Basil

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying? This **Fresh & Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, & Basil** is the perfect solution. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, offering a delicious combination of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and fragrant basil. Ideal for meal prep, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, this salad brings together wholesome flavors in a single bowl.

#### Ingredients:

- **2 cups cooked pasta** (such as penne, farfalle, or rotini)
- **1 cup cooked chicken breast**, diced or shredded
- **1 ripe avocado**, diced
- **1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes**, halved
- **1/4 cup fresh basil leaves**, chopped
- **1/4 cup red onion**, finely chopped (optional)
- **2 tablespoons olive oil**
- **1 tablespoon lemon juice**
- **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard**
- **Salt and freshly ground black pepper**, to taste

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Pasta*
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.

2. **Cook the Chicken*
- If you haven’t already prepared your chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Let it rest before dicing or shredding.

3. **Make the Dressing*
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. **Assemble the Salad*
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, diced avocado, halved tomatoes, chopped basil, and red onion if using.

5. **Dress the Salad*
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. **Serve*
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

#### Tips for the Perfect Salad:

- **Avocado* To keep the avocado from browning, add it just before serving if you’re making the salad in advance.
- **Chicken* Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great for this salad. For a quicker option, use pre-cooked chicken strips.
- **Add-ins* Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients such as olives, cucumbers, or feta cheese.

#### Nutritional Benefits:

This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:
- **Avocado** provides healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- **Tomatoes** are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
- **Chicken** adds lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- **Basil** is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

With its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this **Fresh & Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad with Avocado, Tomato, & Basil** is a meal that will leave you feeling both satisfied and nourished. Perfect for a quick lunch or as part of a meal prep routine, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this refreshing salad that’s as wholesome as it is tasty!