There’s something about a Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad that just never goes out of style. It’s creamy, it’s crunchy, it’s savory, and it feels fancy enough for a dinner party but easy enough to whip up on a Tuesday night when you’re already halfway into your pajamas. Now imagine taking all of that goodness and tossing it with perfectly cooked pasta. That’s right — we’re talking about the ultimate Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. This dish is a beautiful mashup of two comfort food favorites: the traditional Caesar salad and your go-to pasta bowl.
I remember the first time I made this salad — it was one of those “use what you have in the fridge” situations. I had some leftover chicken breasts, half a bag of romaine, and a lonely bottle of Caesar dressing hanging out on the fridge door. Toss in some cooked penne, croutons for crunch, and Parmesan to seal the deal, and I was in comfort food heaven. My family devoured it in one sitting, and just like that, this salad found a permanent spot in our dinner rotation.
What makes this recipe extra special is how effortlessly it comes together. It doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or fancy ingredients. Everything is easy to find, simple to prep, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry crowd, or just looking for a refreshing spin on your usual pasta night, this dish delivers in all the right ways.
Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. You can serve it warm, room temperature, or chilled. You can double it for a potluck or make a single serving for lunch. The textures alone — tender chicken, crisp lettuce, al dente pasta, and crunchy croutons — make every bite an experience. And don’t even get me started on that Caesar dressing that ties everything together with creamy, garlicky perfection.
So, if you’re ready to dive into a new favorite recipe, keep reading. This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is more than just a dish — it’s a go-to meal that checks all the boxes: delicious, comforting, satisfying, and seriously simple.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
First and foremost, this recipe combines two beloved classics: Caesar salad and pasta. On their own, they’re already crowd-pleasers, but when brought together, something magical happens. The pasta adds heartiness to the dish, turning what’s usually a light side salad into a filling and balanced main course. That means it’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or meal prep — no need to serve anything on the side unless you really want to.
Another reason you’ll fall in love with this salad is the texture. Let’s be honest — texture is everything when it comes to food, and this dish has it in spades. Think about the crisp bite of romaine lettuce, the chewy tenderness of pasta, the golden seared chicken, and those crunchy croutons adding the finishing touch. And all of it is coated in a luscious Caesar dressing that brings the dish together with tangy, garlicky goodness.
It’s also incredibly beginner-friendly. If you’re just starting out in the kitchen or looking for a foolproof recipe to add to your collection, this one’s a winner. You don’t need special skills or fancy gadgets. A knife, a pot, a pan, and a mixing bowl will do the trick. The steps are straightforward, and there’s plenty of room for flexibility, so you can’t really mess it up.
Let’s not forget about the ingredients — they’re basic but mighty. With simple pantry and fridge staples like pasta, chicken breasts, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese, you might already have everything you need. And because you can use store-bought dressing and croutons, this recipe cuts down on prep time while still tasting homemade.
Finally, it’s a family favorite. This is the kind of meal that kids and adults alike will ask for again and again. It’s creamy without being heavy, and savory without being overpowering. If you’re serving picky eaters, you can leave out the lettuce or toss in extra pasta. Want to keep it lighter? Add more greens and go easy on the croutons. Either way, it’s always a hit.
Health Benefits of this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Even though this dish feels like indulgent comfort food, it has some solid nutritional perks that make it a smart choice for a balanced meal. First, let’s talk about the star of the show: chicken breast. Lean, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a fantastic source of high-quality protein. They help keep you full and satisfied while supporting muscle maintenance and repair, which is essential whether you’re hitting the gym or just chasing after toddlers all day.
The romaine lettuce in this dish adds a fresh, crisp bite while delivering fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin K. These nutrients play an important role in immune function, bone health, and digestion. While romaine might not be the most nutrient-dense leafy green out there, it’s a great base for salads and blends well with stronger flavors like Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese.
Now let’s talk about the pasta. We’re using penne in this recipe, but feel free to choose your favorite shape or go for a whole-grain or high-protein pasta if you’re looking for a nutrition boost. Pasta provides energy in the form of complex carbohydrates, which your body breaks down slowly for longer-lasting fuel. Plus, pairing carbs with protein (like we do here) helps balance your blood sugar and keep your energy steady.
Then there’s Parmesan cheese. While it adds a salty, savory richness to the salad, it’s also a source of calcium and protein. A little goes a long way, which is great because you get a lot of flavor without having to use too much. Croutons contribute crunch and texture, but if you’re watching your carb intake, you can always swap them for roasted chickpeas or skip them entirely.
Lastly, let’s talk Caesar dressing. It gets a bad rap for being high in fat, but there are so many store-bought and homemade versions available now that offer lighter options without sacrificing taste. You can choose a yogurt-based Caesar, a low-fat version, or make your own with heart-healthy olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
All in all, this dish can be as light or hearty as you want it to be. With smart ingredient choices and portion control, it fits beautifully into a balanced diet.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is not just a quick and satisfying dish — it’s also an efficient one. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or prepping a meal for the whole family, the time investment is minimal, and the payoff is huge.
Total Time:
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Cooling and Assembly: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions as a main dish, or 6 smaller servings if you’re pairing it with a side or serving it as part of a potluck spread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 490
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
These values are approximate and will vary depending on the brand of Caesar dressing and croutons you use, as well as the type of pasta.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can tailor it to fit your nutritional goals. Want more protein? Add an extra chicken breast or sprinkle on more Parmesan. Trying to lighten things up? Use a low-fat Caesar dressing and reduce the portion size of the pasta. Looking for more fiber? Swap the penne for whole-wheat pasta or chickpea pasta. No matter how you spin it, you’re in control.
Ingredients List of this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad to life. The best part? Most of these are pantry and fridge staples, so there’s a good chance you already have them on hand. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean protein that serves as the hearty base of this salad. Boneless and skinless makes for quick cooking and easy slicing.
¾ tsp salt
Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
¾ tsp black pepper
Adds a mild heat and depth to the chicken.
¾ tsp garlic powder
A pantry staple that infuses the chicken with a warm, savory flavor without the need for chopping fresh garlic.
1 tbsp olive oil
Used to sear the chicken, this adds flavor and ensures a golden crust. Olive oil also brings healthy fats into the mix.
8 oz dry penne pasta
Penne holds up beautifully in salads and catches bits of dressing in every bite. Bow tie, rotini, or fusilli would also work well.
1½ cups croutons
Croutons provide that classic Caesar salad crunch. Choose garlic-flavored ones for an extra burst of flavor, or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
The crisp, refreshing greens that bring balance and texture. Romaine holds up well in salads and won’t wilt quickly.
¾ cup Caesar dressing
Creamy, tangy, and packed with umami, Caesar dressing ties the whole dish together. Use store-bought for convenience or whip up your own for a homemade touch.
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salty and nutty, Parmesan adds bold flavor and richness to every bite.
These ingredients are simple, but when combined, they create a dish that’s bursting with texture, flavor, and satisfaction. Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking so that the process flows smoothly. A little bit of planning goes a long way here.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients and why they matter, it’s time to bring everything together. This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is truly as easy as it sounds. The key is doing things in the right order so you can prep while things cook, making the whole process efficient and smooth. Below are detailed instructions, step by step, with helpful tips to guide you along the way.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Start by placing your chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. If they’re particularly thick, you can butterfly them or pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Press the seasonings into the meat gently to make sure they stick well.
Tip: For even more flavor, you can season the chicken up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. This gives the spices time to infuse.
Step 2: Sear and Cook the Chicken
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering — this means it’s hot enough to sear.
- Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Let them sear undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- After resting, cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re doubling the recipe or your skillet is on the smaller side, cook the chicken in batches for the best sear.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken is cooking or resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). For penne, this usually takes around 10–11 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Let it sit in the colander to fully drain while you prep the rest of the salad.
Tip: Rinsing pasta for a cold salad is important—it prevents it from sticking together and removes excess starch. Just make sure it’s drained really well so it doesn’t water down your dressing.
Step 4: Chop the Romaine Lettuce
- Rinse and dry your romaine lettuce thoroughly. If you’ve got a salad spinner, now is its time to shine.
- Roughly chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. You don’t want them too fine or too large—think of what’s easy to scoop up with a fork.
Tip: If you’re prepping this salad ahead of time, store the chopped romaine separately and only mix it in right before serving. That way, it stays crisp and fresh.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl (and I do mean large—you want plenty of space to toss), combine your cooled pasta, cubed chicken, chopped romaine, and croutons.
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing evenly over the top.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese.
Tip: If you’re using a very thick dressing, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of water or olive oil to thin it slightly. This helps it coat the ingredients more evenly.
Step 6: Toss and Taste
- Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in dressing.
- Taste and adjust. Does it need more salt? Another drizzle of dressing? Maybe a bit more Parmesan? Now’s the time to tweak.
Tip: If your pasta or chicken was still slightly warm when you assembled, that’s okay! This salad can be served warm, room temp, or chilled—it’s delicious at any temperature.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. For a finishing touch, you can sprinkle on a little extra Parmesan and a few croutons right on top for presentation.
- Serve immediately if possible, especially if the lettuce is already mixed in. This ensures the crisp texture of the romaine and the crunch of the croutons.
Optional Variations:
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes for a fresh pop of color and acidity.
- Toss in grilled corn or roasted chickpeas for a twist.
- Use spinach or kale if you want a heartier green.
With these clear steps, you’ll find that making this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is more enjoyable than you expected. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for almost any occasion.
How to Serve this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
When it comes to serving this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, you’ve got options—plenty of them. One of the reasons I keep coming back to this recipe is because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re packing it up for a picnic or serving it fresh at a family dinner, it always fits the mood and setting.
You can serve it warm or cold. If everything is freshly cooked and you toss it together right away, it’ll have a cozy, comforting warmth to it. On the other hand, if you’re making it ahead or enjoying leftovers, it’s just as tasty chilled. The flavors actually deepen a little as it sits, making it great for next-day lunches.
This salad also makes a fantastic main course on its own. It’s hearty and balanced, with protein, carbs, fiber, and healthy fats all in one bowl. But if you’re entertaining or feeding a larger group, here are a few serving ideas to make it feel even more special:
- Plate it in shallow pasta bowls and garnish with a little extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve it family-style in a large bowl at the center of the table, letting everyone dig in.
- Turn it into a fun build-your-own salad bar: keep the chicken, pasta, lettuce, croutons, and dressing separate and let everyone assemble their own bowl.
If you want to stretch it a little further or dress it up, consider adding a side of garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light soup like tomato basil. For a more elegant touch, garnish each serving with a lemon wedge or a few shavings of fresh Parmesan.
Pairing Suggestions for this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Pairing the right side dishes and drinks with this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad can turn a simple dinner into something memorable. While the salad is flavorful and filling on its own, pairing it with complementary items can add variety, texture, and even more flavor to your meal.
Side Dishes
Because the salad is rich and creamy, lighter sides work well to balance it out:
- Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and garlic. Their natural sweetness and charred edges contrast nicely with the creamy Caesar dressing.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, this summer classic is a great match, especially if you’re serving the salad chilled.
- Soup: A light, brothy soup like chicken and vegetable or tomato basil pairs beautifully and rounds out the meal without overwhelming it.
- Crusty Bread: A few slices of warm sourdough or a soft dinner roll can help soak up any extra dressing and make the meal feel complete.
Beverage Pairings
To keep things refreshing and light, you’ll want drinks that complement the creamy, savory flavors of the Caesar dressing:
- Sparkling Water with Lemon or Cucumber: Clean and crisp, it helps refresh your palate between bites.
- Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened tea works well, especially with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade: A tangy, slightly sweet option that echoes the brightness of the dressing.
- Apple Cider (Chilled or Warm): If you’re making this in the cooler months, this adds a cozy, subtly spiced touch.
For a Casual Meal
This salad is great picnic or potluck fare. If you’re hosting a group and want to keep things easy and crowd-pleasing, you can serve this salad alongside:
- A platter of fresh fruit
- A tray of assorted finger sandwiches or sliders
- A simple dessert like lemon bars or chocolate chip cookies
These pairings round out the meal while letting the salad shine as the main attraction.
Next up, we’ll talk about how to store leftovers, freeze portions for later, and reheat if needed. Keep going to make sure none of this delicious salad goes to waste.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions of this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Knowing how to properly store, freeze, and reheat your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad ensures you can enjoy every last bite without compromising texture or flavor. Whether you’re prepping it in advance, saving leftovers, or making a double batch to stash away for later, here’s everything you need to know to keep this dish tasting fresh and delicious.
Storing Leftovers in the Fridge
If you’ve already tossed the salad with dressing and added the lettuce, your best bet is to store it in an airtight container in the fridge and eat it within 1 to 2 days. The romaine and croutons can become soggy over time, especially once the dressing is mixed in. To avoid this, you can separate out those ingredients if possible.
Here’s how to store it properly:
- Dressed salad with lettuce: Store in a shallow airtight container and eat within 24–48 hours.
- Undressed components (pasta, chicken, dressing, lettuce, croutons): Store separately in airtight containers. Combine just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
This method is ideal for meal prep. Pre-cooked pasta and chicken will keep well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, giving you a full week of quick lunches or dinners with minimal effort.
Freezing the Components
While the fully assembled salad isn’t freezer-friendly due to the lettuce, dressing, and croutons, you can freeze some of the individual components. This is great if you’re making a larger batch of chicken or pasta in advance.
What can be frozen:
- Cooked chicken: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and try to store it in a single layer for quicker thawing.
- Cooked pasta: Toss the cooled pasta with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, then freeze it in a zip-top bag or airtight container. It will keep for up to 2 months.
What should not be frozen:
- Romaine lettuce: It wilts and loses its crispness once thawed.
- Caesar dressing: Especially if it’s mayo- or yogurt-based, freezing can cause separation and a grainy texture.
- Croutons: They’ll lose their crunch and can turn soggy when frozen and thawed.
Reheating Tips
If you’re reheating components to make a warm version of the salad, keep things simple and don’t overdo it. Chicken and pasta are best when gently warmed.
Reheating chicken:
- Microwave in 30-second bursts until just heated through.
- Or reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Reheating pasta:
- Briefly microwave or dip in boiling water for a few seconds if frozen.
- You can also add it directly to your salad cold if you prefer a chilled dish.
As a general rule, only add lettuce and croutons after reheating the other ingredients to maintain their texture. Once everything is warmed, toss together with fresh romaine and croutons, then drizzle on your dressing and Parmesan.
With proper storage and a little planning, you can enjoy this salad in several different ways throughout the week without ever getting bored.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Even with a simple and forgiving recipe like Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, a few small missteps can make a big difference in flavor and texture. To help you get the best results every time, here’s a list of common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Not seasoning the chicken well
One of the most common oversights is under-seasoning the chicken. Since the chicken is a major component of the salad, it needs to be flavorful on its own. Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can even add a little paprika or dried Italian herbs if you’d like a flavor boost.
2. Overcooking or undercooking the chicken
Dry, tough chicken is never fun, and neither is raw or undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for several minutes before cubing — this keeps the juices locked in and prevents dryness.
3. Overcooking the pasta
Mushy pasta can turn your salad into a soft, overly starchy mess. Aim for al dente — firm but tender. And don’t forget to rinse it under cool water after draining to stop the cooking and remove excess starch.
4. Not drying the lettuce properly
Wet lettuce can dilute your dressing and make the salad watery. After rinsing, make sure your romaine is thoroughly dried using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
5. Tossing the salad too early
If you’re making this ahead, wait to add the lettuce, croutons, and dressing until just before serving. Mixing everything too early causes the lettuce to wilt and the croutons to lose their crunch.
6. Using too much dressing
It’s easy to get carried away with the Caesar dressing, but too much can overpower the other ingredients. Start with a smaller amount, toss, taste, and add more if needed. You can always add more — you can’t take it away.
7. Skipping the Parmesan
Parmesan isn’t just a garnish here — it adds depth, saltiness, and that signature Caesar flavor. If you leave it out, you’re missing a big part of what makes this dish so delicious.
By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you’ll set yourself up for a flawless pasta salad experience every time.
Pro Tips of this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad
Want to take your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad from great to absolutely unforgettable? These pro tips will help you level up the flavor, texture, and presentation — with very little extra effort.
1. Use freshly grated Parmesan
Pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, but it often lacks the rich, nutty flavor of the freshly grated stuff. If you can, grab a block of Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself. You’ll instantly notice the difference in taste and texture.
2. Toast your croutons
Even if you’re using store-bought croutons, giving them a quick toast in the oven or a dry skillet can enhance their crunch and flavor. Five minutes at 375°F should do the trick — just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
3. Add lemon zest
For a subtle, fresh lift, try zesting a lemon over the salad before serving. The citrus brightens everything and pairs beautifully with the creamy Caesar dressing.
4. Swap in grilled chicken
Instead of pan-searing, you can grill the chicken for a slightly smoky flavor that complements the dressing and cheese. It’s especially great in summer when you’re already firing up the grill.
5. Keep everything cold for picnics
If you’re bringing this salad to a picnic or outdoor gathering, store the components in a cooler and assemble on-site. This keeps the lettuce crisp, the dressing chilled, and everything fresh until it’s time to eat.
6. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes
If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the dressing or directly onto the salad. It gives a subtle kick that balances the creamy and savory flavors.
7. Mix in fresh herbs
Chopped parsley, basil, or chives add a burst of color and freshness. Just a tablespoon or two will bring an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
With just a few extra touches, you can elevate this simple salad into something that feels restaurant-quality. These small tweaks go a long way in making your dish stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re making this recipe for the first time, or you’re trying to adapt it for your own dietary needs, you might have a few questions. Here are the most common ones, along with clear, helpful answers.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne is a great choice because it holds the dressing well and adds nice bite, but bow tie (farfalle), rotini, or fusilli all work beautifully too. Even whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used — just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Can I make this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but with a few modifications. Cook the pasta and chicken ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Chop the lettuce and keep it dry until just before serving. Only toss everything together when you’re ready to eat to keep the textures fresh.
What if I don’t have Caesar dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade Caesar-inspired dressing using mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and Parmesan. Or use your favorite creamy dressing as a stand-in — ranch or garlic herb would also taste great.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Simply leave out the chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein like chickpeas, tofu, or roasted cauliflower. It will still be hearty and satisfying.
Is this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad recipe halal?
It is! All the ingredients are halal-friendly. Just be sure your Caesar dressing doesn’t contain any anchovies or alcohol, as some store-bought varieties do. There are many halal-certified Caesar dressings available now, or you can make your own.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Definitely. Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It saves time and still adds tons of flavor.
How long does this last in the fridge?
If it’s already assembled and dressed, it’s best within 1–2 days. If you’ve kept the components separate, they can last 3–4 days in airtight containers.
Can I pack this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad for lunch?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep. Just keep the lettuce, croutons, and dressing in separate containers to add right before eating. This keeps everything fresh and crisp.
Can I make this low-carb?
Yes, swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini (zoodles), hearts of palm pasta, or another low-carb alternative. Reduce the amount of croutons or leave them out entirely.
Can I serve this warm?
Absolutely. While it’s often served chilled or at room temperature, the dish is equally delicious when served warm. Just combine freshly cooked, warm chicken and pasta, then toss with the remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
With these FAQs, you’re more than ready to tackle this recipe with confidence.
Conclusion & Call to Action
By now, you’ve seen just how easy and rewarding it is to whip up this Creamy Chicken Pasta Salad. It’s the kind of dish that checks every box — quick to prepare, loaded with flavor, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for dinner, meal-prepping lunches for the week, or bringing a bowl to your next family gathering, this recipe always delivers.
It’s comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy, with crisp greens, creamy dressing, and golden seared chicken that makes every bite feel like something special. And it doesn’t hurt that you can put it together in under an hour with basic ingredients you probably already have on hand.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad a try the next time you’re craving something hearty and fresh. You might just find yourself making it again and again.
And if you do, I’d love to hear about it. Snap a photo, share it online, and tag me so I can see your delicious creation. Or leave a comment and let me know how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? Serve it warm or chilled? I’m always here for your kitchen adventures.
Until next time — happy cooking!
PrintCreamy Chicken Pasta Salad with Caesar Dressing and Croutons
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy and crunchy pasta salad combining seasoned chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan, croutons, and pasta all tossed in Caesar dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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¾ tsp salt
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¾ tsp black pepper
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¾ tsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp olive oil
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8 oz dry penne pasta (or bow tie, rotini, etc.)
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1½ cups croutons
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3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
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¾ cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
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⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken until golden and fully cooked (8–10 minutes). Let cool, then cube.
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Cook pasta, drain, and rinse under cool water.
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In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, lettuce, croutons, dressing, and Parmesan.
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Toss gently until fully coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Use halal-certified Caesar dressing.
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For crunch, toast croutons before adding.
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Keep lettuce separate if prepping ahead.
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Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main / Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American