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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad


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  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

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

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
  2. 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

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
  3. Add Parmesan cheese and croutons, then gently toss again.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. 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