Sweetgreen’s Chicken Pesto Parm has become a fan favorite for its fresh flavors and satisfying ingredients. We love how this dish combines tender grilled chicken with vibrant pesto and a sprinkle of parmesan, creating a perfect balance of savory and herbaceous notes. It’s a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time.
Recreating this beloved salad at home lets us enjoy all those delicious flavors without the wait or the price tag. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner, this Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm recipe hits the spot every time.
Ingredients
To recreate the Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm at home, we’ll need a fresh selection of ingredients carefully grouped for ease of preparation. Below are the essential components for the chicken, pesto sauce, Parmesan and Toppings, and the salad base.
Chicken Ingredients
The heart of this dish is the perfectly cooked grilled chicken. For juicy and flavorful results, gather:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pesto Sauce Ingredients
Authentic pesto is bursting with basil and rich nuttiness — let’s capture that vibrant flavor:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- ⅓ cup pine nuts (lightly toasted)
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- Juice of half a lemon (adds brightness)
- Salt, to taste
Parmesan and Toppings
To finish our dish with that signature Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm flavor and texture balance, we include:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Freshly grated Parmesan | ¼ cup | For topping and mixing |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup (halved) | Adds sweetness and color |
| Croutons | ½ cup | Optional for crunch |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | Enhances flavor |
Salad Base Ingredients
For the light and crisp salad foundation, we rely on fresh greens and complementary salad ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed baby greens (arugula, spinach, and romaine for variety)
- ½ cup cucumber (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup roasted red peppers (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra zest)
Equipment Needed
To successfully recreate the Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm Recipe, having the right equipment is essential for efficiency and achieving the best results. Below is a detailed list of the tools we recommend using throughout this recipe.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill | For perfectly cooking the juicy grilled chicken with those signature char marks |
| Food Processor or Blender | To blend the fresh basil, pine nuts, and other ingredients into a vibrant pesto sauce |
| Chef’s Knife | For chopping vegetables like cucumber and roasted red peppers with precision |
| Cutting Board | Provides a sturdy surface for all our chopping and slicing needs |
| Mixing Bowl | To combine and toss the salad ingredients evenly |
| Measuring Spoons & Cups | Ensures accurate measurements for the pesto and salad dressings |
| Grater | For freshly grating the Parmesan cheese — essential for that authentic flavor |
| Salad Tongs or Large Spoon | Makes mixing and serving the salad easy and mess-free |
| Serving Bowl or Plate | To present our finished chicken pesto parm beautifully |
Tip: Using a non-stick grill pan helps in cooking the chicken evenly without sticking. If you prefer, an outdoor grill adds a smoky flavor that complements the pesto beautifully.
We strongly recommend prepping all your equipment beforehand to keep the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Having everything ready lets us focus on layering those fresh, vibrant flavors that make the Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm so unforgettable.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, proper prep work sets the foundation for our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm to shine. Let’s get everything ready step-by-step to ensure a smooth and flavorful process.
Preparing the Chicken
To achieve juicy, tender grilled chicken packed with flavor, follow these steps:
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Trim any excess fat or tendons for a clean bite.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes in a mixture of:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
This brightens the flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Grill each side for 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips for salad topping.
Making the Pesto Sauce
Our signature pesto brings vibrancy and richness, made fresh and easy at home:
- Gather ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted lightly
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- In a food processor or blender, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic.
- Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- While processing, slowly drizzle olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
- Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Transfer pesto to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent discoloration.
Preparing the Salad Base
A fresh and crisp salad foundation balances our pesto and chicken perfectly.
- Use 4 cups mixed baby greens for texture variety.
- Slice 1 small cucumber into thin half-moons.
- Dice 1/2 cup roasted red peppers for sweet smoky notes.
- Halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes for bursts of juicy freshness.
- Optional: Drizzle 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar over the salad to add subtle tang.
- Gently toss all ingredients in a large mixing bowl to combine evenly.
| Prep Component | Key Tips |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Rest before slicing to retain juices |
| Pesto | Toast pine nuts for deeper flavor |
| Salad Base | Use fresh, crisp vegetables |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the vibrant and flavorful Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm. Precision and timing ensure every component shines with freshness and balance.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.
- Remove the boneless, skinless chicken breasts from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, maintaining a consistent medium-high heat to develop grill marks without burning.
- Check doneness using a meat thermometer—cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy slices.
- Slice the chicken diagonally into thin, even strips for optimal texture and presentation.
| Step | Action | Time/Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat grill | Medium-high heat | 5 minutes |
| Grill chicken side 1 | Grill chicken | 6-7 minutes |
| Grill chicken side 2 | Flip and grill other side | 6-7 minutes |
| Rest chicken | Cover with foil | 5 minutes |
| Check temp | Cook to | 165°F (74°C) internal temp |
Assembling the Pesto Parm Topping
- Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant. Remove immediately to prevent burning.
- Prepare the pesto sauce by blending fresh basil*, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth and vibrant green. Use a squeeze of lemon juice to keep the color fresh.
- Place mixed baby greens, sliced cucumber, roasted red peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the salad base lightly with balsamic vinegar (optional) and toss gently.
- Layer the grilled chicken slices over the greens.
- Spoon generous dollops of the freshly made pesto over the chicken and salad.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Add croutons for a crisp texture contrast.
- Serve immediately or chill slightly for a refreshing option.
“The secret to our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm lies in balancing bold pesto flavors with fresh vegetables and perfectly grilled chicken, creating a harmonious dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent.”
Key tips:
- Toast pine nuts just before blending for intense nutty flavor.
- Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan for authentic taste.
- Toss salad gently to keep leafy greens crisp.
This step-by-step cooking guide ensures your Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm delivers on the signature taste and satisfying texture that makes it a favorite.
Assembling the Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm Salad
To assemble our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm salad perfectly, we follow a systematic layering approach. This guarantees every bite delivers the signature balance of textures and vibrant flavors.
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
- Begin by placing 2 cups of mixed baby greens evenly on your serving bowl or plate.
- Add ½ cup of thinly sliced cucumber to introduce refreshing crunch.
- Scatter ¼ cup of roasted red peppers across the greens for subtle sweetness.
- Distribute ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes to brighten the salad visually and taste-wise.
Step 2: Add the Grilled Chicken
- Slice the grilled chicken breast against the grain into ¼-inch thick pieces.
- Arrange the chicken slices evenly on top of the salad base, ensuring balanced protein distribution.
Step 3: Drizzle with Pesto
- Spoon 3 tablespoons of freshly made basil pesto over the chicken layer.
- Use the back of the spoon to gently spread it, allowing the pesto to mingle with the greens and chicken.
Step 4: Sprinkle Parmesan and Pine Nuts
- Generously sprinkle 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.
- Toast 1 tablespoon of pine nuts until golden and fragrant. Once cooled, scatter them atop the salad for added nutty flavor and crunch.
Step 5: Add Croutons and Finish
- Top the salad with ¼ cup crunchy croutons to introduce a satisfying crisp texture.
- For an optional tangy zest, lightly drizzle 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar around the salad edges.
Assembly Summary Table
| Component | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed Baby Greens | 2 cups | Fresh and crisp |
| Cucumber, sliced | ½ cup | Thin slices |
| Roasted Red Peppers | ¼ cup | Roasted for sweetness |
| Cherry Tomatoes | ½ cup, halved | Fresh |
| Grilled Chicken | 1 breast, sliced | Rested and sliced thinly |
| Basil Pesto | 3 tablespoons | Freshly blended |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2 tablespoons, grated | High quality |
| Pine Nuts | 1 tablespoon, toasted | Adds crunch |
| Croutons | ¼ cup | Crunchy and fresh |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1 teaspoon (optional) | For additional zest |
Pro tip: As we assemble, gently toss the salad to ensure pesto and toppings coat the greens and chicken evenly without overpowering the delicate flavors.
By carefully layering and balancing these ingredients, we recreate the iconic Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm salad experience at home — fresh, flavorful, and perfectly textured.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm experience, let’s explore some Serving Suggestions that complement the salad’s fresh, vibrant flavors and make it suitable for various occasions.
- Pair with a Light White Wine or Sparkling Water
The herby pesto and parmesan richness pair perfectly with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon. These drinks cleanse the palate and enhance the salad’s fresh notes.
- Serve as a Main or Side Dish
Thanks to its balance of protein and greens, our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm works well as a main course for lunch or dinner. Alternatively, cut the grilled chicken into smaller slices and offer the salad as a side alongside grilled vegetables or a warm baguette.
- Meal Prep for Easy Weekday Lunches
Prepare several servings and store components separately—keep the pesto and croutons on the side to maintain crispness. Reassemble just before eating for a quick flavorful meal.
- Add Complementary Toppings
Enhance texture and flavor by adding:
- Sliced avocado for creaminess
- Toasted walnuts for crunch
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Warm Variation
For a cozy twist, serve the grilled chicken warm on top of the greens and allow the pesto to slightly melt, intensifying the aroma and flavor.
Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm Serving Guide
| Serving Style | Description | Ideal Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Main Course | Complete salad with all components | Quick dinner or lunch |
| Side Dish | Smaller chicken portions with salad base, plus bread | Dinner accompaniment |
| Meal Prep | Components stored separately for freshness | Weekday lunch or on-the-go |
| Warm Variation | Warm chicken with slightly melted pesto | Cooler days or comfort food |
“A well-planned serving method turns our Chicken Pesto Parm into a versatile dish perfect for any season or event.”
By customizing these serving suggestions, we ensure every meal is as delightful as the original Sweetgreen experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm Recipe at your convenience, here are essential Make-Ahead Tips that keep flavors fresh and textures crisp.
1. Prepare Components Separately
Prepare grilled chicken, pesto sauce, and salad ingredients in advance and store separately. This avoids sogginess and preserves the signature textures.
| Component | Storage Method | Refrigeration Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | Airtight container, sliced | Up to 3 days |
| Pesto Sauce | Small jar, sealed tightly | Up to 5 days |
| Salad Greens | Paper towel-lined container | Up to 2 days |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Whole, in a container | Up to 2 days |
| Croutons | Airtight container | Up to 1 week (room temp) |
2. Marinate and Grill Chicken Ahead
Marinate the chicken breasts the night before. When ready, grill them in batches then cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This step enhances the pesto-infused chicken flavor and saves cooking time on busy days.
3. Make Pesto Sauce in Bulk
Prepare a larger batch of pesto and refrigerate in small portions or freeze in an ice cube tray for easy thawing. This preserves freshness while providing quick dollops for the salad.
4. Salad Assembly Tips
When assembling the salad later:
- Layer the mixed baby greens first.
- Add grilled chicken slices on top.
- Drizzle with chilled or room temperature pesto sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and toasted pine nuts.
- Top with fresh cherry tomatoes and croutons.
5. Keep Optional Dressings Separate
If using balsamic vinegar or additional dressings, store them separately and add just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Pro Tip: For a quick meal prep strategy, portion all main ingredients into individual containers and combine within 10 minutes of eating for maximum freshness and flavor integrity.
Utilizing these Make-Ahead Tips ensures our Sweetgreen Chicken Pesto Parm stays vibrant and delicious, whether for a packed lunch or a speedy dinner.
Conclusion
Recreating Sweetgreen’s Chicken Pesto Parm at home lets us enjoy a fresh and satisfying meal anytime. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s easy to bring those vibrant flavors and perfect textures to our kitchen.
Whether for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness in every bite. By following the tips and techniques, we can confidently serve a salad that’s both wholesome and indulgent, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Sweetgreen’s Chicken Pesto Parm salad?
The salad includes grilled chicken, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, mixed baby greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red peppers, pine nuts, croutons, and optional balsamic vinegar.
How can I make the pesto sauce at home?
Blend fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Use fresh ingredients and blend just enough to keep the vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
What equipment do I need to recreate this dish?
You’ll need a grill pan or outdoor grill, a food processor or blender, a knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, and utensils for grilling and assembling the salad.
Can I prep this salad in advance?
Yes, prepare components separately—grill the chicken, make pesto, and chop veggies. Store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to keep freshness and texture.
How should I assemble the Chicken Pesto Parm salad?
Start with the mixed greens base, add grilled chicken, drizzle pesto, sprinkle Parmesan and pine nuts, then top with cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers, croutons, and a splash of balsamic if desired.
What are some serving suggestions for this salad?
Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water. Serve it as a main dish or a side. Optional toppings like avocado, toasted walnuts, or a squeeze of lemon can add extra flavor.
Can the chicken be served warm?
Yes, for a warm variation, serve the grilled chicken warm on the greens so the pesto melts slightly, enhancing the dish’s aroma and flavor.
How do I prevent the pesto from discoloring?
Keep the pesto refrigerated and cover tightly to minimize air exposure. Adding a thin layer of olive oil on top before storing can also help maintain its vibrant color.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely. Keep each component—chicken, pesto, greens, and toppings—stored separately and assemble fresh when ready to eat for best texture and flavor.
Are there any tips for grilling the chicken perfectly?
Marinate chicken beforehand for flavor, use a preheated non-stick grill pan or outdoor grill, and cook until golden brown with clear juices, ensuring it’s fully cooked but juicy.