This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
I love how filling it is without being heavy. Plus, you can enjoy it cold—perfect for hot days! And let’s be real, who can resist a good Caesar salad? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape holds the dressing beautifully. You could swap it for fusilli or farfalle if you prefer. For a lighter option, whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles works well too!
Chicken Breasts: Grilled or cooked chicken adds protein; I suggest using rotisserie chicken for a time saver. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or grilled tofu can be a great substitute.
Caesar Dressing: You can use store-bought dressing for convenience. If you’re looking for a homemade version, blend mayo, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and Parmesan. For a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can be a good base.
Romaine Lettuce: This adds crunch, but you can substitute with kale, spinach, or mixed greens based on what you have on hand.
Croutons: Store-bought croutons are fine, but I love homemade ones for freshness. You can toast leftover bread with a bit of olive oil and seasoning for a quick version.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky if you’re not familiar with it. Here’s how to get juicy, flavorful chicken every time:
- First, ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking.
- Season it generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This enhances flavor!
- Heat the skillet until it’s hot before adding your olive oil. This helps to create a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side. Don’t flip too soon; let the sear do its magic!
- Always check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this allows the juices to redistribute, making it tender.
Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup croutons (preferably whole grain or homemade)
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and then another 5-10 minutes to mix everything together. This quick salad can be served immediately or chilled for later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, sliced chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce. If you’re using minced garlic, add it now! Pour in the Caesar dressing and toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well coated.
4. Add the Final Touches:
Now, fold in the croutons and crumbled bacon if you’re using it. To finish, sprinkle the top with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese for a delicious touch. Give it one last gentle toss.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is now ready to enjoy! You can serve it right away or cover it and refrigerate for up to a day. It’s fantastic both cold and at room temperature. Enjoy this flavorful dish any time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is delicious, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary slightly.
Is There a Way to Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon. You can replace the chicken with ingredients like chickpeas, grilled tofu, or even tempeh for added protein and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The salad can be served cold or at room temperature. If it seems a bit dry after storing, just add a splash of extra Caesar dressing to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep most of this salad ahead. Cook the pasta and chicken, then assemble everything except for the lettuce, croutons, and dressing. Store them separately in the fridge, and combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
