This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty blend of pasta, juicy chicken, crunchy romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing. It’s quick to make and perfect for a lunch or picnic!
I love how this salad is like a party on a plate! You get all the flavors of a classic Caesar wrapped in fun pasta. Perfect for when you want something fresh and filling! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne pasta works great here because its shape holds the dressing nicely. If you don’t have penne, bowtie or fusilli are tasty alternatives that can also add a fun twist!
Chicken: I usually have leftover rotisserie chicken on hand, which makes this salad quick and easy. You can use any cooked chicken, like grilled or poached, or even make it vegetarian with chickpeas.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a rich flavor to this dish. If you need a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Caesar Dressing: Store-bought dressing is convenient, but homemade is easy too! Mixing mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovies gives an amazing taste. If you’re dairy-free, look for a vegan Caesar dressing.
Croutons: While optional, they add a nice crunch. You can easily make your own from stale bread, seasoned with olive oil and herbs, then toasted until crispy!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta to al dente is important for texture in this salad. To do this, follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the penne.
- Cook according to package instructions but start checking for doneness a minute or two before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard.
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from getting mushy.
Keeping a close eye on the pasta is key. I often taste a piece to make sure it’s just right!
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Croutons (optional, for added crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes around 20 minutes to prepare. That includes about 10 minutes for cooking the pasta, plus a few minutes for mixing everything together. If you want to chill it for a while before serving, you might add an extra hour to let the flavors blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This cools it off and stops the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to let it drain completely.
2. Prepare the Salad Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This forms the base of your salad and creates a delicious combination of flavors and textures!
3. Add the Dressing:
Now it’s time to dress the salad! Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently with a spatula or large spoon to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Make sure you’re gentle so the romaine stays crunchy!
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t forget to give it another gentle toss after seasoning to make sure the flavors are well distributed. Adjust the seasonings if you think it needs a little more pop!
5. Final Touches:
If you want to take your salad up a notch, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top and add croutons for a delightful crunch. They offer a nice contrast to the creamy dressing and soft pasta.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is ready to go! You can serve it immediately for a fresh dish, or refrigerate it for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great for this salad, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, rotini, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it al dente to maintain the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Caesar Dressing?
No problem! You can make a simple homemade dressing using 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, a clove of minced garlic, and some salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together for a fresh alternative!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the lettuce will wilt over time, so it’s best to add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, or even some bacon bits for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the dressing quantity to ensure everything is well coated!
