This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick and tasty way to enjoy a meal! With tender chicken, pasta, and fresh romaine, it’s all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing.
You can whip this up in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy days! I love adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top for an extra cheesy touch. Who can say no to that? 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini or cavatappi for this salad because they hold the dressing so well. If you don’t have these, any pasta shape will work, such as penne or fusilli. Whole grain pasta is a great option for added fiber!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick and easy. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute—just shred it and toss it in. It saves so much effort!
Romaine Lettuce: Fresh romaine adds a nice crunch. You can swap it with other greens like spinach or kale, but keep in mind that kale is tougher and may need massaging or a longer resting time in the dressing.
Caesar Dressing: For a healthier twist, try yogurt-based Caesar dressing. If you prefer homemade, mix mayo with anchovy paste, garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan for a quick version. You can also use a lighter vinaigrette if you want to cut calories.
Croutons: I prefer homemade croutons for extra crunch, but store-bought options save time. Feel free to use any kind you enjoy, and even swap in nuts or seeds for a different texture!
How Do You Cook the Chicken Perfectly in This Salad?
Cooking the chicken right is crucial for this dish! Here are some tips to achieve juicy, flavorful chicken:
- Make sure to season your chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking. It enhances the flavor!
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil. This ensures a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Look for a golden color and ensure it’s cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping. This helps keep the juices locked in!
Easy 20-Minute Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Protein:
- 8 ounces rotini or cavatappi pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Salad Components:
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Time Needed:
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick recipe that only takes about 20 minutes! With time for cooking the pasta and chicken, plus tossing everything together, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start off by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the pasta of your choice—rotini or cavatappi works great! Cook according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down a bit. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Take the chicken breasts, season them generously with salt and pepper, and place them in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (should reach 165°F in the center). Once ready, take them off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, and 3 cups of chopped romaine lettuce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Now, pour the Caesar dressing over the top. Grab a big spoon and gently toss everything together until well coated and mixed. It should look delicious!
4. Add the Final Touches:
Right before serving, gently fold in the croutons to keep them crunchy. If you’d like, you can garnish the salad with extra Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is ready to go! You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours if you prefer it chilled. Enjoy this easy and delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just chop it up and toss it in. This helps cut down on prep time and makes the salad even quicker to prepare!
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply skip the chicken. You can add protein-packed ingredients like chickpeas or cannellini beans instead. They’ll provide a nice texture and extra nutrients!
What Dressing Works Best?
Store-bought Caesar dressing is the easiest option, but if you prefer homemade, mix mayonnaise with some garlic, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan for a delicious, creamy dressing. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the croutons separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crunchiness!