Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

When you combine the classic flavors of Caesar salad with tender pasta and juicy chicken, you get this mouthwatering Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad! It’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with crunchy croutons and parmesan. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner, this dish will become a go-to favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

• Classic Caesar Flavor: Creamy Caesar dressing coats every bite for that signature taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap proteins, or use gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

• For the Salad:
  • 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (grilled or roasted), sliced or shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced (optional, for extra crunch)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup croutons (or more to taste)
• For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for a creamier texture)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Colander
• Serving bowl

How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and shredded parmesan.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
7. Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with croutons and extra parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pasta salad on its own for a filling meal, or pair it with garlic bread for a complete dinner.
• For a picnic or potluck, double the recipe and keep it in the fridge until ready to serve.
• A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade complements this dish perfectly.

Tips for the Best Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

• Let the Flavors Marinate: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grilled chicken and parmesan will elevate the flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta holds its shape and absorbs the dressing better.

Storage Instructions

• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep Croutons Crispy: If storing overnight, keep the croutons separate and add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the salad up to 1 day in advance, but store the croutons and dressing separately until just before serving.

Q2: What can I use instead of chicken?
A: Grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas are great substitutes for chicken.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and croutons to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion: A Creamy, Flavorful Pasta Salad

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Creamy dressing, tender chicken, and crunchy croutons come together for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re meal prepping or sharing with friends, this dish will never disappoint!

Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on Instagram—we’d love to see your creations!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g

Dig in and enjoy every bite of this refreshing, satisfying salad!

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