Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and easy-to-make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combining tender cooked pasta, succulent chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and sharp Parmesan cheese for a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for quick lunches or light dinners served chilled.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
For the Pasta Salad
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta quickly and stop cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: If not already cooked, poach, grill, or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked through. Allow to cool, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Dressing and Season: Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss well until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, use a low-fat or yogurt-based Caesar dressing.
- Add croutons or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
- Make sure to cool the pasta completely to avoid soggy salad.
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Caesar Salad, Chicken Salad, Easy Lunch, Quick Dinner