Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Crispy Parmesan Croutons in Tasty Caesar Dressing
This hearty pasta salad combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, tender pasta, homemade garlic-Parmesan croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing — tossed together for a crowd-pleasing Mediterranean twist on a classic Caesar.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
For the Salad Base:
2 cups cooked short pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced (or use store-bought grilled strips)
1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup shaved or grated Parmesan
Optional: chopped cucumber or olives for extra Mediterranean flair
For the Crispy Parmesan Croutons:
2 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough or ciabatta)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp oregano
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Salt & pepper
Tasty Caesar Dressing:
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, finely minced
1–2 tsp anchovy paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Water to thin if needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and set aside.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill or pan-sear 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest, then slice thinly.
3. Make the Croutons:
Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.
4. Make the Caesar Dressing:
Whisk together yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, garlic, anchovy paste (if using), salt, and pepper. Add a splash of water to thin to your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta, chopped romaine, tomatoes, and dressing.
Top with grilled chicken slices, Parmesan, and crispy croutons. Garnish with more fresh black pepper and lemon zest if desired.
Tips:
Make it meal-prep friendly: Keep lettuce, pasta, and croutons separate until serving.
For extra creaminess, add diced avocado or a spoonful of hummus.
Use whole grain pasta or chickpea pasta for a healthier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes, but the yogurt-based version is lighter and more Mediterranean-friendly!
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely — skip the chicken and add roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi instead.
Q: How long will it keep?
Up to 3 days in the fridge, but best enjoyed fresh (croutons may soften).
Nutritional Information
Calories: 530
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g