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–+ servings

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

An easy, quick meal that combines tender chicken, pasta, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, perfect for a busy weeknight.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking chicken
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt seasoning

For the Pasta

  • 1 lb pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup Caesar salad dressing good quality bottled or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream to thin the dressing if needed

For the Salad

  • 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup croutons

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  • Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken and press lightly.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking the Pasta

  • Fill a large pot with about 4 quarts of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  • Add pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then spread it out to cool completely.

Combining Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt.
  • Add the cooled pasta and toss gently to coat.
  • Add the diced chicken, romaine, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss everything together gently.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Just before serving, toss in croutons and enjoy chilled.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping croutons separate to avoid sogginess. Reheat using air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, easy recipe, Pasta Salad, Quick Dinner, Weeknight Meal
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