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Homemade chicken Caesar pasta salad in a black bowl, with rotini pasta, fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, and grilled chicken breast slices. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a light sprinkle of black pepper, showcasing a balance of textures and freshness.

chicken caesar pasta salad

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and tangy Caesar dressing, topped with crispy croutons and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, and the best part is that it's make-ahead friendly.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Main Dish, Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Best chicken Caesar pasta salad, chicken caesar pasta salad, Chicken caesar pasta salad near me, Chicken caesar pasta salad recipe, Easy chicken Caesar pasta salad, Simple chicken caesar pasta salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 7
Calories: 350kcal
Cost: $11

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl (Must be large enough for all ingredients.)
  • 1 Sharp chef's knife (For cutting chicken and veggies evenly.)
  • 1 Sturdy Colander (To drain pasta after cooking.)
  • 1 Tongs for Tossing (To gently toss the ingredients.)
  • 1 Airtight storage container (For storing leftovers or pre-prepared parts.)

Ingredients

  • 8oz Pasta Rotini penne, or bowties - Short pasta shapes work best for texture.
  • 2cups Chicken Breast Grilled or roasted - Chicken can be freshly grilled or rotisserie chicken.
  • 4cups Romaine Lettuce Fresh torn into bite-sized pieces - Fresh lettuce adds a nice crunch.
  • 1cup Parmesan Shaved - Freshly shaved parmesan is best for flavor.
  • 1cup Croutons Crispy Choose your favorite kind - homemade or store-bought.
  • 1cup Caesar Dressing Creamy dressing - Store-bought or homemadedepending on your preference.
  • ½cup Bacon Pieces Cooked and crispy - Optional but adds great flavor.
  • 1cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved - Adds color and a juicy burst of flavor.
  • ½cup Red Onion Sliced thinly - Adds a mild ,slightly sweet crunch.
  • To Taste Pepper Freshly cracked - Add at the end for extra flavor.
  • 1tbsp Lemon Zest Fresh - Adds a bright ,zesty note to the dish.
  • 1tbsp Fresh Herbs Optional, e.g. parsley, basil - Adds a fresh burst of flavor.

Instructions

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (1 minute less than package directions). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  • Season chicken breast and grill or roast until fully cooked, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  • Wash and tear the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice red onion thinly, and halve cherry tomatoes.
  • Fry bacon pieces until crispy, then crumble.
  • Mix Caesar dressing with lemon zest, minced garlic, and grated parmesan for extra flavor.
  • In a large mixing bowl, toss pasta with half the dressing. Add chicken, vegetables (except romaine), and remaining dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
  • Just before serving, gently fold in romaine lettuce. Top with croutons, extra parmesan, and freshly cracked pepper.

Notes

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.Feel free to add more of your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 450mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2000IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 170mg | Iron: 2.5mg