Print

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 80 reviews

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Caesar salad, combining tender rotini pasta, crisp Romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or dinner, this salad can be served immediately or chilled for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salad

  • 8 oz uncooked pasta (rotini or penne)
  • 2 hearts of Romaine lettuce, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped cooked chicken breasts (about 2 cups)
  • Croutons (optional, for garnish)
  • Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and anchovy paste until smooth and well combined. Stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld while preparing the salad.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and transfer it to a large serving bowl.
  3. Assemble the salad: Add the chopped Romaine lettuce and shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken to the bowl with the pasta. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Add final touches: If desired, toss in croutons for added crunch and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top for enhanced flavor. Serve the salad immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • You can substitute the rotisserie or cooked chicken with grilled chicken breasts if preferred.
  • For a lighter dressing, swap half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • Croutons add a nice texture contrast but are optional depending on dietary preferences.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; toss again before serving.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Caesar salad, pasta salad, rotini pasta, creamy dressing, easy lunch, quick dinner

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/chicken-caesar-pasta-salad-recipe/