Description
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines tender cooked chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons all tossed together in creamy Caesar dressing with a hint of lemon juice. It’s a refreshing and delicious twist on the classic Caesar salad, perfect for an easy lunch or dinner especially during warmer months.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini or bow-tie pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
Salad
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process. Drain well once more.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped cooked chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons, mixing gently to combine evenly.
- Add Dressing and Seasoning: Pour in the Caesar dressing and fresh lemon juice over the salad mixture. Sprinkle the black pepper on top and toss everything gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and additional croutons if desired to add extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and easy without sacrificing flavor.
- If the pasta absorbs too much dressing while chilling, add a little extra Caesar dressing just before serving.
- To keep croutons crunchy, store and add them separately if preparing the salad ahead of time.
- For more flavor variety, add crispy bacon or substitute grilled chicken instead of cooked chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American