This recipe takes everything you love about a Caesar salad and makes it more filling by adding pasta and protein-rich chicken. It’s creamy, crunchy, and savory with just the right balance of textures. It’s also easy to prep ahead, serve cold or warm, and customize with your favorite Caesar-style ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked pasta (like rotini, penne, or bowties)
Grilled or cooked chicken breast, sliced or chopped
Romaine lettuce, chopped
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
Croutons
Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil (if grilling chicken)
Salt and pepper
Directions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water. Set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper, and grill or cook in a skillet with olive oil until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice or chop.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes (if using), and chicken.
Add Caesar dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and top with croutons just before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Use grilled shrimp, rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas instead of chicken.
Add chopped bacon or anchovies for extra flavor.
Use kale or baby spinach instead of romaine for a different green base.
Make it gluten-free with gluten-free pasta and croutons.
Mix in avocado or hard-boiled eggs for a richer salad.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the croutons separate and add them just before serving. This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare all the ingredients and combine before serving. Keep dressing and croutons separate until ready to eat.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, bowtie, or penne holds the dressing well and blends nicely with the other ingredients.
Can I use store-bought chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled strips are a great time-saver.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
It’s typically served chilled or at room temperature.
Can I use homemade Caesar dressing?
Yes, homemade dressing adds a rich and fresh flavor, but store-bought also works well.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the chicken or substitute with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
What kind of cheese is best?
Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture.
Can I skip the lettuce?
You can, but romaine adds a crisp bite that complements the pasta and dressing.
Do I need to rinse the pasta?
Yes, rinse with cool water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping when mixing with other ingredients.
Conclusion
Chicken Caesar pasta salad is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. Combining the creamy richness of Caesar dressing with hearty pasta and tender chicken makes it both comforting and refreshing. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a great addition to your meal prep rotation or your next gathering.
Chicken Caesar pasta salad combines tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing for a hearty twist on a classic salad. Perfect for potlucks, lunches, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
8 oz cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowties)
2 cups grilled or cooked chicken breast, sliced or chopped
3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
1 cup croutons
1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water, then set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper, and cook in a skillet with olive oil or grill until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice or chop.
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes (if using), and cooked chicken.
Add Caesar dressing and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Top with Parmesan cheese and croutons just before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Keep croutons separate until ready to serve to maintain crunch.Rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works well for quick prep.For a vegetarian version, omit chicken or replace with grilled tofu or chickpeas.Rinse pasta with cool water after cooking to prevent sticking and overcooking.Customize, avocado, or hard-boiled eggs for added richness.
