Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
Try this easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad made with pasta, chicken breast, fresh romaine, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing—great for meal prep.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or grill pan (for chicken)
- Tongs or a wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad
- 12 oz 340 g pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast sliced or chopped
- 1 large romaine lettuce heart chopped
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
- 1 cup croutons homemade or store-bought
For the Chicken
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Dressing
- ¾ to 1 cup Caesar dressing use more or less to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. You want it tender but still firm—it holds the dressing better that way. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or chop.
Step 3: Prep the Veggies
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Grate your Parmesan if you’re using a block (highly recommended for flavor).
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, romaine, Parmesan, and croutons. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
- Add lemon juice, extra Parmesan, or more dressing if needed. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.