This Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick and tasty dish, combining tender chicken, crunchy romaine, and pasta tossed in delicious Caesar dressing. It’s colorful and makes a great meal or side!
I love making this salad because it comes together so fast. Plus, who can resist that creamy dressing and crispy croutons? Perfect for lunch or a simple dinner! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is a great choice for this salad since it holds the dressing well. If you don’t have penne, you can use rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You can also use grilled chicken or leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you need a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or grilled tofu.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch. You can substitute with kale or mixed salad greens, but remember to chop kale finely if you choose it, as it can be tough.
Caesar Dressing: For a homemade touch, you can make simple Caesar dressing using mayo, garlic, lemon juice, anchovy paste, and Parmesan. If you need a lighter version, look for Greek yogurt-based dressings.
Parmesan Cheese: Using freshly grated cheese enhances flavor. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor.
How Can You Make Sure Your Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem easy, but it’s crucial to get it just right for a salad like this. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite.
- Check the package for timing, but start tasting a minute or two early.
- Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly. This also helps prevent sticking.
- Let it drain well before adding to the salad.
Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a little extra time if you choose to chill it in the fridge. If you’re serving right away, you can enjoy it immediately after mixing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm when you bite into it. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped cooked chicken, and the chopped romaine lettuce. It’s a colorful mix that already looks delicious!
3. Add Dressing and Cheese:
Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad! Adjust the flavor with a pinch of salt and some black pepper if you like. A little seasoning can elevate the flavors beautifully!
5. Serve or Chill:
Transfer your beautifully mixed salad to a serving bowl. If you want, you can garnish the top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. You can serve it immediately, or for the best flavor, chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let all those tasty flavors meld together.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your refreshing Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad—it’s loved by everyone and can easily be adjusted to include your favorite toppings or ingredients!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding chickpeas, tofu, or grilled vegetables for extra protein and texture. You can also use a vegetarian Caesar dressing.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the lettuce may become wilty after a day or so.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Just combine all the ingredients and add the dressing right before serving to keep the romaine lettuce crisp. You can chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
