Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Looking for a satisfying yet refreshing meal that’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or meal prep? This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, al dente pasta, and creamy Caesar dressing for a filling, flavor-packed dish. It’s a salad and pasta dish rolled into one—ideal for warm days or quick dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Classics in One – Caesar salad meets pasta salad in a hearty, delicious combo.
Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better after chilling.
Customizable – Add veggies, switch the pasta, or change the protein.
Perfect for Sharing – Ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
• 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowties work well)
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Caesar croutons
• Optional: ¼ cup cooked and chopped beef bacon or turkey bacon

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ cup chopped red onion or scallions
• 1 avocado, diced
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for dressing)
• Pot for cooking pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or large spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Adjust to taste and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, romaine, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
8. Add croutons and toss gently right before serving to keep them crisp.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
9. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
10. Garnish with extra parmesan or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Cool the Pasta – Rinsing with cold water stops the cooking and prevents mushy texture.
Add Croutons Last – Keeps them from getting soggy.
Use Fresh Romaine – Adds crispness and contrast to the creamy dressing.
Chill Before Serving – Enhances flavor and texture.
Prep Ahead – Make everything except the lettuce and croutons up to 2 days in advance.

Serving Suggestions
Lunchbox Favorite – Pack with extra dressing on the side.
BBQ Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with grilled meats or veggie skewers.
Light Dinner – Serve with garlic bread or a side of soup.
Potluck Star – Easy to transport and serve cold or room temp.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For best results, store croutons and lettuce separately and mix in just before serving.

Reheating:
No reheating needed – this salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, it’s a great time-saver and adds lots of flavor.
2. What pasta works best?
   Short pasta with ridges like rotini or bowties holds the dressing well.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Absolutely—skip the chicken or replace it with chickpeas or grilled tofu.
4. What’s the best Caesar dressing to use?
   Use your favorite brand or make your own for a fresher flavor.

Final Thoughts
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of hearty and fresh. It brings together the bold flavors of Caesar salad with the comfort of pasta, making it a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how yours turns out.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 430 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 540mg

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