Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a hearty, refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad, blending tender pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing into one satisfying dish. Perfect for summer meals, picnics, or potlucks, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s a balanced, crowd-pleasing salad that eats like a meal.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well)grilled or rotisserie chicken (sliced or cubed)romaine lettuce (chopped)Caesar dressingparmesan cheese (shredded or shaved)croutonsblack pepperlemon wedges (optional)

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped romaine, and grilled chicken.

Add Caesar dressing and toss until evenly coated.

Sprinkle in parmesan cheese and gently mix.

Top with croutons just before serving for crunch.

Season with black pepper to taste and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChill time: optional 15–30 minutesTotal time: 20–50 minutes

Variations

Use kale or mixed greens instead of romaine.

Add cherry tomatoes or avocado for color and flavor.

Use a homemade Caesar dressing for extra richness.

Substitute grilled shrimp or salmon for the chicken.

Mix in cooked bacon bits for added smokiness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Add croutons just before serving to keep them crisp.Not suitable for freezing due to lettuce and dressing texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, but keep croutons and dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture.

Can I use store-bought chicken?

Absolutely—rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?

Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold dressing well and are easy to eat.

Is it served warm or cold?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, try ranch, Greek yogurt Caesar, or a vinaigrette for a twist.

Is this salad filling?

Yes, the chicken and pasta make it hearty enough for a main dish.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Omit the chicken or use chickpeas or grilled tofu as a protein alternative.

How long does it stay fresh?

Up to 3 days refrigerated—wait to add lettuce and croutons until just before serving if making ahead.

What cheese works best?

Parmesan is classic, but asiago or romano are good alternatives.

Can I use leftover pasta?

Yes, just make sure it’s not overcooked and has been cooled properly.

Conclusion

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a deliciously simple, satisfying dish that combines all the best elements of Caesar salad with the comfort of pasta. Ideal for meal prep, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s a versatile and flavorful favorite that everyone will love. Customize it your way and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite.

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