CHICKEN CAESAR PASTA SALAD
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines creamy dressing, tender chicken, and fresh veggies for a delicious, satisfying meal or side.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup croutons
- Optional: black pepper and lemon juice for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop romaine lettuce and halve cherry tomatoes. Dice or shred cooked chicken.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Dressing: Pour Caesar dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle with croutons and add black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve: Chill for 10-15 minutes if needed and enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Keep the dressing, croutons, and lettuce separate until just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Customizing the Flavor: Use grilled or roasted chicken for a smoky flavor. Add extras like avocado slices, bacon bits, or a handful of chopped fresh herbs for variety.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled as a main dish or side salad for a hearty and refreshing meal. Pair with garlic bread or a light soup.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep croutons and lettuce separate to prevent sogginess.