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
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
