Description
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, and crisp romaine lettuce, all enveloped in a creamy Caesar dressing. The crunchy croutons add a satisfying texture, while the sharpness of Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a refreshing experience.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 8 oz rotini or fusilli, cooked al dente
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- Romaine Lettuce: 4 cups, chopped
- Caesar Dressing: 1/2 cup, store-bought or homemade
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
- Croutons: 1 cup, store-bought or homemade
- Black Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and Caesar dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and croutons over the top, then add black pepper to taste. Toss again lightly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the Caesar dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: grilling/mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 75 milligrams
Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, creamy pasta salad, grilled chicken salad, Caesar dressing, easy pasta salad, summer salad, healthy salad, quick meal, cold pasta salad, romaine lettuce salad, croutons, Parmesan cheese, make-ahead salad