Best Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This salad combines tender pasta, crispy kale, and juicy grilled chicken in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. It’s a satisfying meal that works just as well for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. The pasta adds heartiness, the kale adds crunch and nutrition.
⏳ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
8 oz (225 g) short pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, grilled or roasted, sliced
4 cups kale, stems removed, finely chopped
1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped (optional for added crunch)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional but adds freshness)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
1 cup croutons, store-bought or homemade
For the Caesar Dressing
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
2–3 anchovy fillets (optional, or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Salt & black pepper, to taste
ℹ️ Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain, rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.
2. Make the Dressing
1. In a food processor or blender, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Kale
1. Place chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil and massage gently with your hands for 1–2 minutes until softened.
4. Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, kale, and romaine (if using).
2. Add cherry tomatoes and Parmesan.
3. Pour in the dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Top with croutons right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Notes & Tips
Make Ahead: Keep dressing separate until serving to avoid soggy greens.
Protein Boost: Add hard-boiled eggs for an extra filling salad.
Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt for half the mayo in the dressing.
Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
⁉️ Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes! It will save time. But homemade dressing really takes this salad up a notch.
Q: How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge if stored without croutons and with dressing separate.
✅ Nutritional Information
Calories: ~420
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g