Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: A Flavor-Packed, Hearty Meal
If you love Caesar salad and pasta, why not combine them into one delicious, satisfying dish? This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad brings together grilled chicken, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and penne pasta, all tossed in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing.
It’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh greens, and bold Caesar flavors makes this a go-to recipe that everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Comes together in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Rich & Satisfying – The pasta and chicken make it a hearty meal.
✔ Classic Caesar Flavor – A creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing ties it all together.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for lunches, potlucks, and meal prepping.
✔ Customizable – Swap the protein, pasta, or veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled or pan-seared
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Salad:
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups penne pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- ½ cup croutons (optional)
For the Caesar Dressing (Homemade):
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Mix well until creamy.
4. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced chicken.
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss to coat.
- Top with Parmesan cheese, croutons, and extra black pepper.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days for meal prep.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
✔ As a Main Dish – Serve in a big bowl for a satisfying, balanced meal.
✔ As a Side Dish – Great alongside grilled meats or seafood.
✔ For Meal Prep – Divide into containers for grab-and-go lunches.
✔ With Garlic Bread – The perfect pairing for a complete meal.
✔ As a Wrap – Roll it in a tortilla for a Caesar pasta salad wrap!
Pro Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
🔹 Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it slightly firm (al dente) for the best texture.
🔹 Use Fresh Parmesan – Grate it fresh for the best Caesar flavor.
🔹 Make It Ahead – The flavors get even better after a few hours in the fridge.
🔹 Swap Proteins – Try it with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for variety.
🔹 For Extra Creaminess – Stir in a little extra Greek yogurt or avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quicker version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Note: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use dairy-free Parmesan and mayo for a dairy-free version.
Can I Use a Different Pasta?
Of course! Try bowtie, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta.
Final Thoughts: A Fresh & Hearty Salad You’ll Love!
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it the perfect easy meal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Whether you serve it fresh or chilled, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Try it today and enjoy the ultimate combination of Caesar salad and pasta! 🥗🍝
