This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of tender pasta, grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy dressing. It’s a fun twist on a classic salad that fills you up!
Honestly, it’s like having dinner and a side in one bowl, and who doesn’t love that? I often whip this up for lunch—it’s quick, super easy, and always a hit!
The best part? You can enjoy it fresh or save some for later. Plus, I love adding extra croutons for that nice crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the dressing nicely. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try gluten-free penne or even quinoa pasta for a nuttier flavor.
Chicken Breast: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas or grilled tofu!
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives that nice crunch and a mild flavor. If not available, you can use crunchy greens like iceberg or even spinach for a different spin.
Caesar Dressing: Use your favorite store-bought dressing or make your own for a fresher taste. A yogurt-based dressing can be a lighter alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds more flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a nut-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste with added health benefits.
How Do I Cook Pasta So It’s Just Right?
Cooking pasta perfectly is key for a great salad. You want it to be al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite, so it holds up well against the other ingredients.
- Start by boiling salted water. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Add penne and follow the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Taste it a minute or two before the time is up to check for doneness.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools it down for the salad.
Perfectly cooked pasta makes your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad delicious and prevents it from becoming mushy!
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz 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
- 1/4 cup croutons (optional, for added crunch)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s a quick and easy salad, perfect for a tasty lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and then rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps prevent the pasta from getting mushy in your salad.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken breast, chopped romaine lettuce, cooled pasta, and Caesar dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Be careful not to squish the lettuce!
3. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the salad. Mix well to combine. If you’d like, you can season the salad with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste. Just remember, you can always add more later!
4. Add Croutons and Serve:
If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle croutons on top of your salad. Serve immediately or pop it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Just before serving, feel free to add some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a delicious finishing touch.
Enjoy your tasty Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure the chicken is diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
What Can I Substitute for Caesar Dressing?
If you don’t have Caesar dressing on hand, you can use a ranch dressing or a homemade vinaigrette. For a healthier option, try a Greek yogurt dressing mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan for a similar flavor profile!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crunchiness. When ready to serve, simply toss the salad again to mix in any settled ingredients!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Totally! Feel free to personalize your salad by adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the texture and flavor slightly!
