Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients & Substitutions

Penne Pasta: This recipe uses penne, but you can substitute with rotini, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is standard, but rotisserie chicken works great if you’re short on time. Just shred it and mix it in.

Bacon Bits: You can use real cooked bacon for more flavor or turkey bacon for a lighter option. Vegetarian bacon bits are also available for a meat-free choice.

Caesar Dressing: Store-bought dressing is handy, but you can make your own for fresher taste. Just mix mayo, garlic, lemon juice, parmesan, and Worcestershire sauce!

Romaine Lettuce: If you don’t have romaine, feel free to use any other greens like spinach or kale for a different texture.

How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?

Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how I do it to ensure it’s juicy and delicious:

• Always let your chicken sit out for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to get a nice golden crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary, so the chicken can brown well.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.

Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup bacon bits (cooked and crumbled)
• 1/2 cup croutons (preferably whole grain or rye style)
• 1/3 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken and pasta. So, you’re looking at a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and totally delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but fully cooked). Once ready, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.

2. Cook the Chicken:

While the pasta is cooking, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and a golden brown color. Once done, remove them from the skillet, let them rest for a few minutes, and then slice them into bite-sized pieces.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, sliced chicken, bacon bits, and croutons. Mix everything together gently to combine.

4. Dress the Salad:

Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Don’t be afraid to use your hands for this portion—it can often help to mix everything more thoroughly!

5. Add the Finishing Touches:

Finally, sprinkle the top with shaved Parmesan cheese and additional freshly ground black pepper if desired for some extra flavor. Give it a light toss if you’d like to incorporate the cheese more into the salad.

6. Serve Yourself:

This salad is delicious right away, but if you’d like, you can refrigerate it for up to an hour for a chilled dish. Either way, enjoy your flavorful and easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it into the salad for a quicker prep time.

Is There a Gluten-Free Alternative for the Pasta?

Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and it will work beautifully in this salad.

How Long Can I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the croutons may get soggy, so consider adding them fresh to each serving if you plan to store it.

Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and bacon, and use a vegetarian Caesar dressing. You could add chickpeas or your favorite veggies to make it heartier!