Description
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious fusion of creamy Caesar dressing, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables. Perfect as a light main dish or a flavorful side, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a group, this salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
- 2 medium chicken breasts (grilled or pan-seared)
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and chicken. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the salad with grated Parmesan and croutons. Toss lightly or leave as a garnish for presentation.
- Serve immediately. If making ahead, keep the lettuce, croutons, and dressing separate until just before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep croutons and lettuce separate to avoid sogginess.
- Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for chicken to switch up the protein.