Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and hearty Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combining tender seared chicken breast, al dente penne pasta, crunchy croutons, crisp romaine lettuce, and a creamy Caesar dressing, topped with grated parmesan cheese — perfect for an easy lunch or light dinner.
- Author: Windy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Chicken
- 2 whole chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¾ tsp ground pepper
- ¾ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pasta Salad
- 8 oz. dry penne pasta
- 1½ cup croutons
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ¾ cup Caesar dressing
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, garlic powder, and ground pepper, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to cool.
- Cube the Chicken: Once cooled, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and allow to cool slightly, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large salad mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken, cooked and cooled pasta, croutons, chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Mix and Serve: Toss all ingredients gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with dressing and mixed well. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta to maintain a firm texture in the salad.
- Allow the chicken to cool before cutting to avoid shredding and moisture loss.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; add croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Chicken Pasta Salad, Caesar Salad with Chicken, Easy Chicken Salad, Pasta Salad Recipe, Healthy Chicken Salad