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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Ready in 30 Minutes

A quick Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that combines all the best flavors of a hearty Caesar salad with the satisfaction of pasta, ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Feel free to use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Avocado oil is a good substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Can be substituted with fresh onions if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Optional but recommended.
  • to taste Black Pepper & Salt Season to your preference.
For the Pasta Base
  • 8 ounces Pasta (Rotini, Penne, or Farfalle) Any pasta shape works nicely.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can make it lighter.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Caesar Salad Dressing Homemade or store-bought.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used for a twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can substitute.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Garlic powder is a good alternative.
For Freshness and Crunch
  • 2 cups Chopped Romaine Lettuce Spinach or iceberg can be used.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced cucumbers are a nice alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Substitute with green onions or shallots.
For the Final Touch
  • 1 cup Croutons Keep them separate until serving.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • airtight container

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil before adding your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and Caesar salad dressing. Add lemon juice and Dijon mustard, along with minced garlic. Adjust consistency with milk or cream if needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and pour the creamy dressing over it. Toss gently. Fold in diced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  6. Just before serving, take the salad from the fridge and give it a gentle toss. Add croutons on top. Serve as a refreshing main course or side dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor. Keep croutons separate until serves to avoid sogginess.

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