Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This easy and delicious pasta salad combines juicy grilled chicken, tender pasta, crisp romaine, shaved Parmesan, and crunchy croutons — all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light dinner.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
2 cups dry short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle), cooked and cooled
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup garlic croutons (store-bought or homemade)
For the Caesar Dressing:
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1–2 tsp anchovy paste or Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp cold water to thin, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Grill or Cook the Chicken:
Season chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Grill or pan-sear until golden and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes per side). Let rest, then slice.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing:
Whisk together Greek yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, olive oil, anchovy paste (if using), salt, and pepper. Add water to thin to your liking.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, lettuce, tomatoes, and sliced chicken. Add dressing and toss gently to coat.
5. Top and Serve:
Add shaved Parmesan and croutons just before serving. Optional: extra black pepper or lemon zest on top.
Tips:
Add hard-boiled eggs or avocado for extra richness.
Use whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.
Want it creamier? Mix a spoonful of hummus into the dressing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Store pasta, chicken, lettuce, and dressing separately, then combine before eating.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Sure — skip the chicken and add roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, or crispy halloumi.
Q: Is anchovy paste necessary?
Traditional Caesar has it, but it’s optional! Worcestershire or capers can be a substitute.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g