Description

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines tender rotini pasta, shredded cooked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy Caesar dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Topped with Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons, this dish is perfect for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing summer salad that can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded

Vegetables and Salad Components

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

Dressing and Seasoning

1/2 cup Caesar dressing
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup croutons
Optional: extra shaved Parmesan and cracked black pepper for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta completely and stop the cooking process.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring even distribution.
Add Dressing and Season: Drizzle the Caesar dressing and lemon juice over the salad mixture, then toss thoroughly until everything is well coated. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Add Croutons and Garnish: Just before serving, gently mix in the croutons to keep them crunchy. Garnish with extra shaved Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.
Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing and flavorful dish.

Notes

Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe and adds extra flavor.
For a healthier twist, swap regular Caesar dressing with a light version or use a Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing.
Add bacon bits or avocado to boost the flavor and texture.
The salad can be prepared a few hours ahead—just add croutons right before serving to maintain crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American