Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caesar salad with hearty pasta and grilled chicken. It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light family dinner. 

The creamy Caesar dressing, crisp romaine lettuce, and smoky grilled chicken make this salad both satisfying and flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your guests. 

Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions, nutritional facts, and tips to make this dish a hit at any gathering.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe - Light Yet Filling Meal

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

This recipe is a fantastic twist on the traditional Caesar salad. The addition of rotini pasta gives it a hearty texture, while the grilled chicken adds protein to keep you full. The creamy Caesar dressing ties everything together, and the croutons and shaved Parmesan add a delightful crunch and savory finish. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side, and it’s great for meal prep too.

If you’re looking for other fresh and healthy summer recipes, check out our Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint Recipe for another crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To make this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one is linked to an Amazon affiliate link for easy shopping:

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this recipe, with Amazon affiliate links for convenience:

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe - Pasta Meets Caesar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Each step is written clearly for beginners to follow easily.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once boiling, add 12 oz of rotini pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 

Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking. In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of black pepper, and 1 tsp of salt. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). 

Use tongs to flip the chicken carefully. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 4: Chop the Romaine Lettuce

Chop the Romaine Lettuce

While the chicken rests, wash 4 cups of romaine lettuce under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Place the lettuce on a cutting board and use a chef’s knife to chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Combine Ingredients

In the large mixing bowl with the chopped romaine, add the cooled rotini pasta and sliced chicken. Pour 1 cup of Caesar dressing over the mixture. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until evenly coated. Make sure the dressing covers all the ingredients for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Add Toppings

Add 1 cup of croutons and ½ cup of shaved Parmesan cheese to the salad. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the top for a fresh, zesty kick. Gently toss again to distribute the toppings evenly. The croutons should stay crunchy for the best texture.

Step 7: Serve or Store

Serve or Store

Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours if preparing in advance. If storing, keep the croutons separate until serving to maintain their crunch. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead lunch.

Read Also: Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g (7g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 45g (2g fiber, 3g sugar)
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

These values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, such as the Caesar dressing or rotini pasta. 

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Tips for the Best Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh romaine lettuce and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a big difference in flavor.
  • Grill for Flavor: Grilling the chicken breast adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan works well.
  • Make It Ahead: Prepare the pasta and chicken a day in advance, but toss with Caesar dressing and add croutons just before serving to keep everything fresh.
  • Customize It: Add extras like cherry tomatoes or bacon bits for more flavor. For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add grilled veggies.

For another healthy and flavorful salad, try our Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Grilled Chicken Recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the chicken breast. To keep it protein-packed, add grilled vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or include a plant-based protein like chickpeas. The Caesar dressing and rotini pasta will still provide plenty of flavor.

2. How long can I store this salad?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons separate to prevent them from getting soggy. If you’re preparing it for a potluck, assemble the salad and add the dressing and toppings just before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini pasta works well because its spirals hold the dressing, you can use other short pastas like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to maintain the right texture.

4. How can I make my own Caesar dressing?

To make homemade Caesar dressing, blend ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, and 2 chopped anchovy fillets. Adjust with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Is this recipe suitable for a ketogenic diet?

This recipe isn’t keto-friendly due to the rotini pasta and croutons. However, you can make it keto-compatible by using zucchini noodles and skipping the croutons. For keto diet support, try NuviaLab Keto to help maintain ketosis and reduce appetite.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors that’s sure to impress at any summer gathering. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and great for making ahead, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. 

The combination of rotini pasta, grilled chicken, and Caesar dressing creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, with the option to customize it for dietary needs, it’s a recipe everyone can enjoy. For an extra boost to your health, consider Keto Actives to support weight loss and energy levels.

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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe - Pasta Meets Caesar