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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

5 from 124 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, garlic powder, and ground pepper, ensuring all sides are coated.
  2. 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.
  3. Cube the Chicken: Once cooled, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and allow to cool slightly, preventing it from becoming mushy.
  5. 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.
  6. 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