Ultimate Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a twist on the classic Caesar salad, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad delivers big flavor in a satisfying one-bowl meal. Tender slices of seasoned chicken mingle with al dente penne, crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy croutons, all coated in a creamy Caesar dressing brightened by fresh lemon and parsley. It’s a dish that feels familiar yet excitingly new, making it a crowd-pleaser at summer cookouts, potlucks, and laid-back weeknight dinners.
From backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad fits any occasion. It travels beautifully, so you can pack it for picnics, bring it to the office for lunch, or serve it alongside grilled skewers on a warm evening. Plus, it’s hearty enough to stand alone yet versatile enough to complement a variety of sides and drinks.
Gather your favorite pasta, fresh produce, and pantry staples this recipe comes together in under 45 minutes, leaving you more time to relax with friends or prep other dishes. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- One-Pot Wonder: Cook your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad in just two pans one for the pasta and one for the chicken so cleanup is a breeze.
- Flavor-Packed: With Italian seasoning, garlic powder, fresh lemon, and tangy dressing, every bite bursts with savory, zesty notes that feel gourmet but are ridiculously easy.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the familiar flavors of Caesar salad paired with hearty pasta. It’s a simple way to sneak in extra greens, too.
- Meal Prep Marvel: Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners all week long. It stays fresh for days in the fridge.
- Customizable: Want more veggies? Craving extra crunch? This recipe adapts to include avocado, or whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- 1 lb. penne
Tip: Swap for whole-wheat penne for added fiber, or use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs. - 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Tip: Choose a robust variety for more flavor when searing the chicken. - 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Substitution: Use thighs if you prefer darker meat or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. - 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
Tip: Feel free to ramp it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. - 1 tsp. garlic powder
Swap: Fresh minced garlic works beautifully if you have it. - Kosher salt
Tip: Season generously to bring out all the flavors. - 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
Keep it crisp by washing and drying thoroughly before chopping. - 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
Substitution: Cherry tomatoes or diced Roma work well, too. - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Tip: Grate from a block for optimal creaminess. - 1/2 cup croutons
Swap: Crispy pita chips add a fun twist. - 2/3 cup Caesar dressing
Tip: Use a high-quality store-bought jar or make your own for extra tang. - Juice of 1/2 lemon
Tip: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dressing—avoid bottled for the best taste. - 1 Tbsp. freshly chopped parsley
Swap: Chives or basil can add a different herbaceous note. - Freshly ground black pepper
Tip: Grind just before serving for a bold pop of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta
To make the perfect Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente about 10–12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Rinsing under cool water helps stop cooking and prevents sticking. - Season and sear the chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken in the pan. Cook for about 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown. - Rest and slice the chicken
Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes—this redistributes juices and keeps the meat tender. After resting, slice into 1-inch pieces or bite-sized strips for easy tossing. - Combine salad ingredients
To the bowl of pasta, add chopped romaine lettuce, halved grape tomatoes, grated Parmesan, croutons, and the sliced chicken. Gently fold with a spatula to distribute ingredients evenly, ensuring each bite has a bit of everything. - Whisk and dress
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season lightly with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go. Pour this mixture over the pasta and salad components, then toss thoroughly until every piece is coated.
Recipe Variations for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Lighten It Up: Swap Greek yogurt into your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad dressing for a protein boost and tangy creaminess without the extra calories.
- Avocado Upgrade: Add diced avocado just before serving for a silky texture and healthy fats.
- Veggie Boost: Fold in steamed broccoli florets or blanched snap peas to sneak in more nutrients and color.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Classic Side Pairing: Pair your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up any extra dressing perfect for bread lovers.
- Grilled Accompaniments: Serve alongside lemon-pepper shrimp skewers or grilled zucchini for a balanced plate that feels both hearty and light.
- Picnic Ready: Box up in mason jars or airtight containers for an easy, mess-free outdoor meal that travels well.
Storage & Leftover Tips for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Proper storage will keep your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store the croutons separately if you plan to keep them crunchy. When ready to enjoy again, give the salad a quick toss in any extra dressing if it seems dry, and add a squeeze of lemon to brighten flavors before serving.
FAQ
How long will this salad stay fresh in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad will remain flavorful for 2–3 days. If you notice the lettuce wilting, give it a gentle toss with a splash of dressing and lemon juice to revive.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Assemble everything except the croutons up to a day ahead. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain crisp textures. Add croutons just before plating.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This recipe delivers all the tangy, savory satisfaction of a classic Caesar salad with the hearty comfort of pasta and chicken perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping your lunches. Give it a try at your next gathering, and let us know how it turns out! If you loved this guide, leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share your own tips or tweaks on social media. Happy cooking!
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb penne
- 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 2/3 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 Juice of lemon
- 1 Tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and place it in a large bowl.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Cook the chicken for about 8 minutes on each side or until it is golden and fully cooked. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into 1-inch pieces.
- To the bowl with the pasta, add the romaine lettuce, halved grape tomatoes, grated Parmesan, croutons, and the chopped chicken.
- In a separate medium bowl, mix together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice, and chopped parsley, and season with salt and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
