Description
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Caesar salad! Juicy grilled chicken, tender pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, and crunchy croutons are tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light and satisfying lunch!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or diced – Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great.
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie) – Cooled and ready to toss.
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped – Adds fresh crunch.
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Optional, for a juicy pop.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded – For that rich, salty flavor.
- 1 cup croutons – Adds the perfect crunch.
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Caesar dressing – Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds freshness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the Caesar flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Optional, for extra depth.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Chicken
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- If cooking fresh chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Let it rest, then slice.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
- Add Parmesan cheese and croutons, then gently toss again.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately, or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better into the dressing.
- Let the Pasta Cool – Warm pasta can wilt the lettuce.
- Make it Healthier – Use whole wheat pasta and a light Caesar dressing.
- Add Extra Veggies – Cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados are great additions!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American-Italian