Go Back
–+ servings
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad 1

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A delicious and versatile dish that transforms the classic Caesar salad into a satisfying meal by combining crisp romaine lettuce, tender grilled chicken, al dente pasta, and rich Caesar dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet or Grill
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the salad

  • 8 oz short pasta penne, farfalle, or rotini work best
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1 lb/450g
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 hearts of romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, plus extra for serving
  • 1 cup croutons store-bought or homemade

For the Caesar dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon anchovy paste optional
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while it cools.
  • Season chicken breasts with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook using your preferred method until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C): grill over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or pan-sear in a skillet for 5-6 minutes per side, then finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes.
  • Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if using). Add grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine, sliced chicken, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with about ¾ of the Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons. For best results, add the croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Notes

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
If making ahead, add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.
For meal prep, store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 32gFat: 26gSodium: 620mgFiber: 4g
Keyword Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Caesar Salad, Pasta Salad, Meal Prep
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!