Description
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a hearty twist on two favorites—Caesar salad and pasta salad—combined into one flavorful, satisfying dish. It features crisp romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, and crunchy croutons. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
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2 cups cooked chicken (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie; sliced or cubed)
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3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
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½ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
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½ cup shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese
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1 cup croutons
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¼ tsp black pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
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1 tsp olive oil + ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for grilling chicken)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Chicken
If using fresh chicken, season with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then grill or roast until cooked through. Let rest, then slice. -
Chop Lettuce
Wash and dry romaine. Chop into bite-sized pieces. -
Assemble Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, chicken, romaine, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan. Toss gently to coat. -
Top and Serve
Add croutons and an optional squeeze of lemon juice. Sprinkle with black pepper and extra cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Make it a meal prep star by storing pasta/chicken/dressing together and adding lettuce/croutons right before eating.
Use leftover chicken or rotisserie to save time.
Add-ins: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, or a hard-boiled egg boost nutrition and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salads / Pasta / Main Dishes
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken caesar pasta salad, cold pasta salad, caesar salad with pasta, summer potluck salad