Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe That’s Perfect for Busy Nights
This Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines juicy seasoned chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, pasta, and a tangy homemade Caesar dressing for a hearty and refreshing twist on a classic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilled, Boiled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for chicken)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)
- ½ teaspoon dried dill (for chicken)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken)
- 6-8 ounces pasta (such as cellentani, penne, or bow tie)
- 2 heads romaine lettuce, sliced (yielding about 6-8 cups)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup croutons (or breadcrumbs, if preferred)
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons capers, including their brine
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt (for dressing)
Instructions
1. Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried dill, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest for 5-10 minutes, then dice into ½-inch pieces.
3. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Transfer to a large serving bowl.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers with brine, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the salad: To the bowl with pasta, add diced chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
6. Add the dressing: Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
7. Serve: Chill for 10–15 minutes if desired, then serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead—just keep the lettuce and croutons separate until ready to serve for the best texture.
Try using grilled chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/easy-chicken-caesar-pasta-salad/