Go Back
–+ servings
Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A quick and refreshing Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that combines delicious flavors of chicken, romaine, and Caesar dressing.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken Caesar, easy recipes, healthy salad, Lunch Ideas, pasta salad, quick meals
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Grater

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor
  • 8 oz penne, rotini, or farfalle pasta choose your favorite shape for a fun twist
  • 1 head Romaine lettuce fresh romaine gives the salad a satisfying crunch
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the salad
  • Croutons add just before serving for that perfect crunchy texture

For the Dressing

  • Caesar dressing store-bought option adds convenience but feel free to make your own

Optional Add-Ins

  • Halved cherry tomatoes vibrant and juicy, they brighten up the salad
  • Thinly sliced red onion offers a mild zing that complements the creamy dressing

Instructions

How to Make Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Let it drain well again afterwards.
  • If using a rotisserie chicken, shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces. For raw chicken breasts, grill or pan-fry until cooked through, then cool slightly before dicing or shredding.
  • Wash the romaine lettuce thoroughly, pat it dry, and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Grate your Parmesan cheese, saving a little for garnish.
  • In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, prepared chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce. Gently toss to distribute all ingredients evenly.
  • Pour your desired amount of Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together until all ingredients are coated.
  • Sprinkle most of your grated Parmesan cheese into the bowl and toss again. Save the croutons until just before serving to keep them crisp.
  • Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, garnish with reserved Parmesan cheese and extra croutons, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 700IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!