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Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
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Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing, and satisfying summer dish combining tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tangy Caesar dressing. This protein-packed salad offers a perfect balance of fresh flavors and creamy indulgence, ideal for backyard BBQs, picnics, or quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Components

  • 2 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1 cup croutons

Dressing & Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup creamy Caesar dressing
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, for seasoning the chicken
  • Garlic powder, a pinch (for chicken seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Cook and Cool the Pasta: Boil your rotini or penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool completely.
  2. Grill and Slice the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Grill until cooked through and juicy. Let the chicken rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Prepare the Romaine Lettuce: Wash and chop romaine lettuce into crisp, manageable pieces that mix well without wilting.
  4. Mix the Dressing and Combine: In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, grilled chicken slices, chopped romaine, lemon juice, and creamy Caesar dressing. Toss gently to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes (if using), and crunchy croutons on top to preserve their texture and freshness. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh lettuce and freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
  • Add Caesar dressing gradually to avoid soggy salad.
  • Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  • Add croutons right before serving to keep them crunchy.
  • Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it tender and juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, creamy pasta salad, grilled chicken salad, summer salad, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-chicken-caesar-pasta-salad/