Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: A Potluck Favorite

Craving a Caesar salad but want something more filling? This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is the perfect solution! Combining the creamy Caesar dressing, flavorful chicken, and crunchy romaine lettuce with satisfying pasta, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any potluck or barbecue. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Chicken:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Salad:
  • 2 romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup Caesar salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • Croutons (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water (add the 1 tablespoon salt) to a boil. Add the olive oil and pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let the chicken cool slightly, then chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar salad dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Fold in the cooked chicken and croutons (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Serve the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.

Tips:

• For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the Caesar dressing.
• Want to add some extra veggies? Try chopped red onion, bell peppers, or black olives.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the croutons may become soggy, so it’s best to add them just before serving.