Description
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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
