This tasty Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines tender chicken, crispy romaine, and flavorful pasta. It’s drizzled with creamy Caesar dressing, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
It’s like having a classic Caesar salad with a pasta twist. I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix it up, and you’re ready to dig in—no cooking drama here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tube-shaped pasta works great for holding onto the dressing and flavors. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use fusilli, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Chicken Breast: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but cooked leftovers work well too. For a lighter option, you could use grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds that crunchy texture. If it’s not available, iceberg or spinach could be a good swap. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor a bit!
Caesar Dressing: Store-bought dressing is quick and easy, but homemade dressing can elevate your salad! If you need a dairy-free option, there are vegan Caesar dressings available.
Parmesan Cheese: Classic Caesar salad topping! If you’re out or need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Pasta for Salad?
Getting your pasta right is crucial for any pasta salad. Overcooking can lead to a mushy salad, so here are some key tips:
- Start by boiling salted water; it should taste like the sea!
- Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, for al dente texture.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps it keep its shape!
- Let it cool completely before adding it to your salad. This avoids wilting the greens and keeps everything fresh.
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional, for added crunch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for chicken)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and if you choose to chill it before serving, it can take an extra 30 minutes. Overall, you can have a delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once it’s cooked al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, diced cooked chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
3. Add the Dressing:
Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta salad. Toss everything gently, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This is what gives the salad its delicious flavor!
4. Season it Up:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the salad and toss again, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Now, season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste—feel free to adjust according to your preference.
5. Add Crunch and Serve:
If you like a little crunch, sprinkle in the croutons just before serving. They’ll add a wonderful texture to your salad. Serve immediately with some extra Parmesan cheese on top, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy your refreshing Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great in this salad. Just make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
What If I Don’t Have Caesar Dressing?
No problem! You can use any creamy dressing you prefer, such as ranch or a yogurt-based dressing. If you want to make a quick homemade Caesar dressing, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and grated Parmesan for a tasty alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta salad might absorb some dressing over time, so consider adding a splash more dressing before serving again to refresh the flavors!
Can I Add Extra Veggies to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Make sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the other ingredients!
