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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Savor the Crunch: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Delight

A delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, perfect for gatherings, packed with protein and customizable ingredients.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Canola or avocado oil make good alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Swap for fresh minced onion if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika deepens flavor.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (Rotini, Penne, or Farfalle) Gluten-free pasta can substitute for dietary preferences.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is great for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Caesar Salad Dressing Homemade or quality store-bought alternatives work well.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice may serve as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Regular mustard can substitute.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Adjust quantity based on preference.
  • 1/4 cup Milk or Cream Skip for a thicker consistency.
For the Salad
  • 4 cups Chopped Romaine Lettuce Spinach can be added for more nutrients.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Any type of tomato will do.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion (thinly sliced) Sweet onion can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Croutons Homemade or store-bought options are ideal.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • cutting board
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Start by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture generously on both sides of the chicken breasts.
  3. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  6. Add your choice of pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
  7. Once the pasta reaches the desired doneness, drain it in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water.
  8. To cool the drained pasta quickly, spread it out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  9. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  10. If you'd like a thinner consistency for your dressing, gradually stir in milk or cream until desired.
  11. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and pour the prepared dressing over it. Toss gently but thoroughly.
  12. Carefully fold in the diced chicken.
  13. Add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
  14. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  15. Just before serving, mix in croutons.
  16. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 34gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins as desired. This recipe is highly adaptable.

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