Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a flavorful twist on the classic Caesar salad, combining tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing. It’s hearty enough to be a main course yet light and refreshing, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. The addition of Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons adds extra texture and flavor to every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (such as rotini or penne)
grilled chicken breasts
romaine lettuce
Caesar dressing
Parmesan cheese
croutons
olive oil
salt
black pepper
lemon juice (optional for added brightness)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-cook until fully cooked, then slice into bite-sized strips.

Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.

Add the cooled pasta, grilled chicken, and lettuce to the bowl.

Drizzle Caesar dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Optional: squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling and assembling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-specific option.
Substitute grilled shrimp or salmon for chicken.
Add cherry tomatoes or sliced cucumbers for extra veggies.
Mix in chopped bacon for a smoky flavor boost.
Use a homemade Caesar dressing for a richer, fresher taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best texture, keep croutons separate until ready to serve.
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and is not recommended for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and mix just before serving.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, it’s a convenient and flavorful option.

What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle holds the dressing well and mixes easily.

Is Caesar dressing safe for kids?
Some Caesar dressings contain raw egg or anchovies—choose a kid-friendly version if needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and add chickpeas or roasted veggies instead.

Does it need to be served cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I use bagged salad mix?
Yes, it’s a quick and convenient option.

What kind of cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Add dressing and croutons just before serving.

Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, ranch or Greek dressing can be used, but it will no longer be a traditional Caesar flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that blends the comfort of pasta with the bold, tangy flavors of Caesar salad. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry group, this salad offers a satisfying combination of taste and texture that’s both easy to make and endlessly customizable.

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