Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

I never thought I’d be the type to obsess over a pasta salad, but here we are. It all started at a summer potluck where my friend Sarah brought this incredible Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that disappeared within minutes.

I cornered her by the dessert table and basically begged for the recipe. She laughed and said it wasn’t anything fancy, just her grandma’s twist on two classics. That weekend, I was in my kitchen, determined to recreate it.

The first attempt was a soggy mess. I made the rookie mistake of drowning the pasta in dressing and adding the lettuce way too early. But after a few tweaks and some trial and error, I finally nailed it. Now it’s my go-to dish for every gathering, picnic, and even those nights when I just want something satisfying but not too heavy.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	32 minutes
Servings	8 servings
Difficulty Level	Easy

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

This isn’t your average boring pasta salad. The combination of tender rotini, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and that creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing creates something truly special.

It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish but light enough that you won’t feel weighed down. I love that it gets better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or taking to events where it might sit out for a bit.

The best part is how customizable it is. My teenage daughter hates anchovies, so I leave them on the side. My husband adds extra Parmesan because he’s obsessed with cheese. Everyone wins.

Here’s what makes this dish a winner:

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Everyone loves Caesar salad, and adding pasta takes it from side dish to satisfying main course
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together
• Protein-Packed: The grilled chicken makes this filling enough to keep you satisfied for hours
• Texture Heaven: You get creamy, crunchy, tender, and chewy all in one bite
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank
• Perfect for Any Season: Great for summer picnics, but equally delicious at winter potlucks
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, side dish, or pack it for lunch throughout the week

For another crowd-pleasing option, try my BLT Pasta Salad which brings bacon and tomatoes into the mix.

Ingredients

The secret to amazing Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is using quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the Caesar dressing. I’ve tried both homemade and store-bought versions, and honestly, a good store-bought dressing works beautifully if you’re short on time. But if you want to go the extra mile, making your own dressing takes this dish to another level.

For the Salad:

• 1 pound (450g) rotini pasta (or penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
• 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups (about 1 large head) romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (110g) garlic croutons
• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup (70g) bacon bits (optional, but highly recommended)

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
• 1/3 cup (80ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, but adds authentic Caesar flavor)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe so much easier. I learned this the hard way when I tried making it with mismatched bowls and dull knives. Trust me, invest in good equipment and you’ll thank yourself later.

• Large pot for boiling pasta (at least 6 quarts)
• Colander for draining pasta
• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Sharp chef’s knife for chopping
• Large mixing bowl (at least 5 quarts)
• Medium mixing bowl for dressing
• Whisk for mixing dressing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Tongs for handling chicken
• Wooden spoon or spatula for tossing salad

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making this recipe countless times, I’ve discovered a few products that truly elevate the final result. These aren’t just random recommendations; these are the items I personally use and can’t imagine making this dish without.

1. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Real Parmigiano Reggiano makes such a difference compared to the pre-grated stuff in the green can. The nutty, complex flavor adds so much depth to both the dressing and the salad topping. I buy a wedge and grate it fresh right before using it, which takes maybe two minutes but transforms the entire dish.

Get it on Amazon

2. Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan

I’ve had my Lodge grill pan for over ten years, and it still works like new. It gives the chicken those beautiful grill marks and locks in the juices without needing to fire up an outdoor grill. The even heat distribution means perfectly cooked chicken every single time, and cleanup is surprisingly easy.

Get it on Amazon

3. Barilla Rotini Pasta

Not all pasta is created equal, and Barilla rotini holds up incredibly well in this salad. The spirals catch all that creamy dressing, and even after sitting in the fridge overnight, the pasta maintains its texture without getting mushy. It’s worth spending a little extra for quality pasta.

Get it on Amazon

4. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner

This salad spinner changed my life, honestly. Getting the romaine lettuce completely dry is crucial for this recipe because any excess water will dilute your dressing. The OXO spinner is sturdy, easy to use, and dries lettuce in seconds. It’s also great for washing and drying herbs.

Get it on Amazon

5. King Arthur Flour Croutons Mix

While you can certainly use store-bought croutons, making your own with this mix takes about ten minutes and adds an incredible homemade touch. The garlic and herb seasoning is perfectly balanced, and fresh croutons have a crunch that store-bought versions just can’t match.

Get it on Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. I’ve included all the little tricks I’ve learned along the way to help you avoid the mistakes I made when I first started making this recipe.

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat (use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water for properly seasoned pasta)
• Add the rotini pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking
• Cook according to package directions, usually 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally
• Test pasta 2 minutes before the package time suggests by biting into a piece; it should be al dente with a slight firmness in the center
• Once done, drain in a colander but do not rinse (the starch helps the dressing cling better)
• Drizzle the hot pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss gently to prevent sticking
• Spread pasta on a large baking sheet or platter to cool to room temperature, about 10-15 minutes

Another favorite: Shrimp Macaroni Salad which uses a similar pasta base with a seafood twist.

2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels (this helps achieve better browning)
• Place chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper
• Using a meat mallet or heavy pan, gently pound chicken to an even 3/4-inch thickness throughout (this ensures even cooking)
• In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt (about 1 teaspoon), and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Rub this mixture all over both sides of each chicken breast, making sure to coat evenly
• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F/190-200°C)
• Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking
• Place chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes without moving (this creates nice grill marks)
• Flip chicken carefully using tongs and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part
• Remove chicken from heat and let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes (this keeps the juices inside)
• Once rested, dice chicken into 1/2-inch cubes or slice into strips, depending on your preference

3. Make the Caesar Dressing

• In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream, whisking until smooth
• Add lemon juice gradually while whisking to prevent separation
• Stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce until well incorporated
• Add minced garlic and anchovy paste (if using), mixing thoroughly
• Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese with a spatula
• Season with black pepper and taste before adding salt (Parmesan is already salty)
• If the dressing seems too thick, thin it with 1-2 tablespoons of water or milk
• If it’s too thin, add more Parmesan cheese, one tablespoon at a time
• Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the remaining ingredients (this helps the flavors meld)

You might also enjoy: Texas Roadhouse Ranch Salad Dressing for a different flavor profile.

4. Prepare the Romaine Lettuce

• Remove outer leaves from the romaine head and discard any wilted or damaged pieces
• Cut the head in half lengthwise, then chop into 1-inch pieces
• Place chopped romaine in a salad spinner and fill with cold water
• Swish the lettuce around gently to loosen any dirt or debris
• Drain water and spin the lettuce until completely dry (this is crucial; wet lettuce will make your salad soggy)
• If you don’t have a salad spinner, pat the lettuce dry between clean kitchen towels
• Transfer dried lettuce to a large bowl and refrigerate until ready to use

5. Assemble the Salad

• In your largest mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and diced chicken
• Add about 3/4 of the prepared Caesar dressing and toss gently but thoroughly with tongs or a large spoon
• Taste and add more dressing if needed (you can always add more, but you can’t take it away)
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours (this allows the pasta to absorb the dressing)
• Just before serving, add the chopped romaine lettuce and toss gently to combine
• Fold in halved cherry tomatoes if using
• Sprinkle with bacon bits and croutons
• Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese
• Toss everything together one final time, being careful not to crush the croutons
• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed

6. Final Touches and Serving

• Transfer the salad to your serving bowl or platter
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese shavings using a vegetable peeler for a restaurant-quality presentation
• Add a few whole romaine leaves around the edges for visual appeal
• Place extra croutons in a small bowl on the side so they don’t get soggy
• Serve immediately for the best texture, or keep refrigerated until serving time
• If the salad has been chilled for a while and seems dry, toss with a few tablespoons of extra dressing before serving

Tips for The Best Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

After making this recipe more times than I can count, I’ve learned some tricks that make all the difference. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and create a restaurant-quality salad every time.

Pasta Perfection:

• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds up much better in salads and won’t get mushy
• Always salt your pasta water generously; this is your only chance to season the pasta from within
• Cool pasta to room temperature before adding dressing to prevent the dressing from getting oily or separating
• If you’re in a hurry, spread hot pasta on a baking sheet and place in the fridge for faster cooling

Chicken Cooking Secrets:

• Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking and tender results
• Let chicken rest after cooking; cutting it immediately releases all the flavorful juices
• For extra flavor, marinate chicken in Italian dressing for 2-4 hours before grilling
• Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time; just remove the skin and shred the meat

Dressing Done Right:

• Make the dressing at least 30 minutes ahead to let the flavors develop and meld together
• Start with less dressing than you think you need; you can always add more just before serving
• If making ahead, reserve some dressing to add before serving since pasta absorbs dressing over time
• For a lighter version, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt

Lettuce and Texture:

• Add lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp; soggy lettuce ruins the dish
• Dry lettuce thoroughly; water is the enemy of creamy dressing
• Use only the inner, crisper leaves of romaine; outer leaves can be bitter and tough
• Chop lettuce into bite-sized pieces; you want a little in every forkful

Crouton Considerations:

• Add croutons right before serving or serve them on the side to keep them crunchy
• Make your own croutons by tossing cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, then baking at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes
• Store croutons separately if making this salad for meal prep
• Day-old bread makes the best croutons; it’s already slightly dried out

Cheese Choices:

• Always use freshly grated Parmesan; pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture
• Parmigiano-Reggiano is worth the splurge; the flavor is incomparably better
• Save the Parmesan rind to add flavor to soups and stews
• Let cheese come to room temperature before grating for easier handling

Make-Ahead Magic:

• Prepare all components separately up to a day in advance and assemble before serving
• Store pasta, chicken, and dressing in separate containers in the refrigerator
• Don’t add tomatoes until serving time as they can make the salad watery
• The salad tastes best when eaten within 24 hours of assembly

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many dishes. I’ve served it at backyard barbecues, potlucks, and even fancy dinner parties, and it always fits right in.

For summer gatherings, this salad shines alongside grilled meats and fresh vegetables. It’s substantial enough to be the main attraction at a casual lunch but elegant enough for more formal occasions when you need a standout side dish.

Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

• With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside Teriyaki Grilled Chicken, grilled steaks, or barbecue ribs for a complete summer feast
• As a Picnic Main: Pack it in a cooler for outdoor concerts, beach days, or park picnics (it travels beautifully)
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty Sourdough Focaccia for dipping in extra Caesar dressing
• Potluck Perfection: Bring it to family reunions, church dinners, or neighborhood gatherings where it feeds a crowd
• Light Dinner Option: Pair with a simple soup like Easy Chicken Noodle Soup for a satisfying but not heavy meal
• Sandwich Sides: Perfect alongside BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches or Sloppy Joe
• Cookout Companion: Serve at summer barbecues with Mexican Street Corn and Coleslaw
• Party Platter: Present in a large bowl surrounded by Deviled Eggs and Sausage Balls for appetizers
• Lunch Box Hero: Pack in individual containers for work lunches throughout the week
• Game Day Food: Serve in individual cups or bowls during football season alongside other finger foods

Variations of Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary needs. I’ve experimented with countless variations over the years, and each one brings something special to the table.

Protein Variations:

• Grilled Shrimp Caesar Pasta Salad: Replace chicken with 1.5 pounds of peeled, deveined shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and grilled for 2-3 minutes per side
• Salmon Caesar Pasta Salad: Use 1 pound of grilled or baked salmon, flaked into chunks
• Steak Caesar Pasta Salad: Substitute grilled sirloin or flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
• Turkey Caesar Pasta Salad: Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey or rotisserie turkey breast
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely and add chickpeas, white beans, or grilled portobello mushrooms
• Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crispy bacon pieces throughout and reduce or eliminate the chicken
• Italian Sausage Twist: Use grilled Italian sausage links, sliced into rounds

Pasta Alternatives:

• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat rotini for added fiber and nutty flavor
• Chickpea Pasta: For a gluten-free, high-protein option that works surprisingly well
• Orzo: Creates a more refined, elegant version perfect for dinner parties
• Tortellini: Use cheese tortellini instead of regular pasta for an extra indulgent dish
• Penne: Traditional tube pasta that holds the dressing beautifully
• Bow Tie: Adds a fun, decorative element that kids love
• Cavatappi: The corkscrew shape catches extra dressing in every bite

Vegetable Add-Ins:

• Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and kalamata olives
• Garden Fresh: Include diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss in roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant
• Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado just before serving for creamy richness
• Broccoli Boost: Include blanched broccoli florets for extra nutrition and color
• Corn and Black Beans: For a southwestern twist that’s unexpectedly delicious

Dressing Variations:

• Creamy Pesto Caesar: Swirl in 2-3 tablespoons of basil pesto
• Lemon Herb: Add extra lemon zest and fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill
• Spicy Caesar: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes
• Light Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of half the mayonnaise and sour cream
• Vegan Caesar: Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
• Anchovy-Forward: Double the anchovy paste for those who love that umami punch

Cheese Options:

• Mixed Cheese: Combine Parmesan with Romano or Asiago for complex flavor
• Blue Cheese: Add crumbled blue cheese for a bold, tangy twist
• Mozzarella: Include fresh mozzarella pearls for creamy pockets of cheese
• Feta: Use crumbled feta for a Greek-inspired variation

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage makes all the difference in maintaining the quality of your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. I’ve learned through experience exactly how to keep this salad fresh and delicious for days.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Store the fully assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• For best results, store lettuce, croutons, and dressing separately and combine just before serving
• Keep pasta, chicken, and tomatoes together in one container; they can handle being dressed ahead
• Place a paper towel on top of the lettuce if storing it separately to absorb excess moisture
• Store extra dressing in a mason jar or squeeze bottle for easy addition later
• Label containers with the date so you know when you made it

Make-Ahead Storage:

• Prepare pasta and chicken up to 2 days in advance and store separately
• Make dressing up to 5 days ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container
• Wash and dry lettuce up to 3 days ahead; store wrapped in paper towels in a plastic bag
• Don’t add croutons until serving time; they get soggy if added too early
• Keep cherry tomatoes separate until ready to serve as they can release moisture

Freezing (Not Recommended):

• This salad does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh lettuce
• The pasta becomes mushy and the dressing separates when frozen and thawed
• Lettuce turns brown and wilted after freezing
• If you must freeze, only freeze the cooked, undressed pasta and chicken separately
• Freeze grilled chicken in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in refrigerator overnight before using

Reheating:

• This salad is meant to be served cold, so reheating is not typically necessary
• If you prefer warm chicken, reheat it separately in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, then add to cold salad
• You can warm individual portions slightly by letting them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes
• Never microwave the fully assembled salad as it will wilt the lettuce and make the dressing oily
• For meal prep, keep chicken and pasta together and warm slightly before adding fresh, cold lettuce

Reviving Leftovers:

• If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, toss with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh Caesar dressing
• Add fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan to brighten up day-old salad
• Toss in fresh cherry tomatoes or cucumber for a crisp texture boost
• Add a handful of fresh lettuce to replace any that has wilted
• Warm croutons in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness before adding

Food Safety Tips:

• Never leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s over 90°F/32°C outside)
• Discard any salad that has been sitting out at a picnic or party for extended periods
• Always use clean utensils when serving to prevent contamination
• Store at 40°F (4°C) or below for optimal food safety
• Trust your nose; if the salad smells off or the chicken seems slimy, throw it out

Nutritional Facts

Understanding the nutritional content helps you make informed decisions about portion sizes and how this salad fits into your meal plan. This analysis is based on one serving (1/8 of the recipe).

Per Serving (approximately):

• Calories: 485
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Vitamin A: 45% DV
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

Nutritional Highlights:
This salad provides a balanced combination of macronutrients. The chicken offers high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. The pasta provides complex carbohydrates for energy, while the lettuce adds fiber and vitamins with minimal calories.

The dressing contributes most of the fat content, but you can easily lighten this by using Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium and additional protein.

For a Lighter Version:

• Use whole wheat pasta (adds 3g fiber per serving)
• Replace half the mayonnaise with non-fat Greek yogurt (reduces calories by about 80 per serving)
• Use grilled chicken breast instead of thighs (saves about 50 calories per serving)
• Reduce croutons to 1 cup total (saves 25 calories per serving)
• Skip the bacon bits (reduces sodium and saves 40 calories per serving)

Dietary Considerations:
This recipe contains gluten (pasta, croutons), dairy (cheese, dressing), and eggs (mayonnaise). It can be modified for various dietary needs by swapping in gluten-free pasta, dairy-free cheese, and vegan mayo.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This salad isn’t just delicious; it actually packs some impressive nutritional benefits. I love that I can serve something my family enjoys while knowing they’re getting real nutrients.

The combination of ingredients creates a meal that supports overall health in multiple ways:

• Chicken Breast: One of the leanest protein sources available, chicken breast provides all nine essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair and maintenance. It’s also rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6, which support energy metabolism and brain function. The selenium in chicken acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
• Romaine Lettuce: This crisp green is surprisingly nutritious, offering significant amounts of vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. The folate in romaine supports cell division and DNA synthesis, making it especially important for pregnant women. It’s also extremely low in calories while providing fiber that aids digestion.
• Parmesan Cheese: Beyond its incredible flavor, Parmesan is one of the best dietary sources of calcium, with one ounce providing about 30% of your daily needs. It’s also naturally lactose-free due to the aging process, making it easier to digest than other cheeses. The protein in Parmesan is highly bioavailable, meaning your body can easily use it.
• Olive Oil: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. The antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil, particularly oleocanthal, have properties similar to ibuprofen. It also helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables in the salad.
• Garlic: This pungent bulb contains allicin, a compound with potent antibacterial and antifungal properties. Regular garlic consumption has been linked to improved heart health, including lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Garlic also supports immune function, helping your body fight off infections more effectively.
• Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C, lemon juice supports immune function and collagen production for healthy skin. The citric acid in lemons can help increase your absorption of iron from plant-based foods. Lemon juice also aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices.
• Whole Grain Pasta (if using): Unlike refined pasta, whole grain varieties provide fiber that slows digestion, keeping you fuller longer and helping stabilize blood sugar levels. The B vitamins in whole grains support energy production and nervous system function. Whole grain pasta also contains important minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc.

For more nutritious meal options, check out my Healthy Shepherds Pie.

FAQs About Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely, and it actually tastes better when made ahead. Prepare all the components separately up to 2 days in advance: cook and dice the chicken, boil and cool the pasta, make the dressing, and wash the lettuce.

Store everything in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combine the pasta, chicken, and most of the dressing a few hours before serving, then add the lettuce, tomatoes, and croutons just before you’re ready to eat. This method ensures the lettuce stays crisp and the croutons remain crunchy.

2. What can I substitute for anchovy paste in the dressing?

If you’re not a fan of anchovies or can’t find anchovy paste, you have several options. Worcestershire sauce adds a similar umami depth (just increase it to 1 tablespoon total).

Miso paste, about 1 teaspoon, provides that savory, complex flavor without any fishy taste. You can also use 1 teaspoon of soy sauce or even a dash of fish sauce if you eat seafood. Honestly, I’ve made this dressing without any of these substitutes, and it’s still delicious, just slightly less traditional.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

The key is cooking the pasta just to al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when you bite into it. Start testing your pasta 2 minutes before the package directions suggest.

Once drained, don’t rinse it, but do toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread the pasta out on a baking sheet to cool it down quickly; this stops the cooking process. When storing, don’t over-dress the pasta initially. Save some dressing to add just before serving, which refreshes the texture.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. One rotisserie chicken typically yields about 3-4 cups of meat, which is perfect for this recipe.

Remove the skin before shredding or dicing the meat, and try to use mostly the white meat for the best texture. The dark meat works too, but it’s a bit oilier. Store-bought rotisserie chicken already has seasonings, so you might want to reduce the salt in your dressing slightly. This is my go-to method when I’m making this salad for a last-minute gathering.

5. How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the fully assembled salad keeps for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. However, the lettuce will start to wilt after the first day, and the croutons will soften.

For the best quality beyond day one, store the dressed pasta and chicken separately from the lettuce and croutons. The dressed pasta mixture actually improves over the first 24 hours as the flavors meld. If you’re meal prepping, I recommend assembling individual portions with the pasta and chicken, then adding fresh lettuce and croutons to each serving as you eat them throughout the week. This way, you can enjoy the salad for up to 4 days.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad has become more than just a recipe in my kitchen; it’s a reliable friend that shows up for every occasion. From rushed weeknight dinners to elaborate summer parties, it never fails to impress.

I hope you give it a try and experience the same joy it brings to my table. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adjusting ingredients to suit your taste. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to drop a comment below or share a photo of your creation on social media!

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• Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
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• Southern Chicken Salad Recipe
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• Pasta House Salad Recipe
• Ono Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe
• Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe
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