Go Back
To make the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, you will need the following ingredients: - 2 cups rotini pasta - 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced - 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved - ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced - ½ cup Caesar dressing - ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Croutons (for topping) These ingredients work together to create a tasty and filling dish. The rotini pasta gives a fun twist and holds the dressing well. The diced chicken adds protein and makes it hearty. Fresh romaine lettuce brings a nice crunch, while cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness. Red onion gives a bit of bite, and the Caesar dressing ties it all together with its rich flavor. Garlic powder enhances the taste without being overpowering. Finally, a sprinkle of salt and pepper will make all the flavors shine. Don't forget the croutons! They add extra crunch and make the salad more enjoyable. To start, cook the rotini pasta. Use a large pot of boiling water. Add salt to the water for flavor. Cook the pasta according to the package. Aim for about 8 to 10 minutes for al dente. Al dente means the pasta is firm but cooked. It should not be mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly. Grab a large mixing bowl for the salad. First, add the cooked pasta to the bowl. Next, add in the diced chicken. Then, toss in the chopped romaine lettuce. After that, add the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion. Make sure to mix these ingredients gently. This helps to spread them evenly. Now it's time to dress the salad. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together again. You want to coat all the ingredients well. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix gently. For serving, you can place the salad in bowls or on a large platter. Top it with crunchy croutons for extra texture. To cook chicken breast well, start with even pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken is done at 165°F. Let the chicken rest before you dice it. This keeps the juices inside and makes it tender. If you want pasta alternatives, try penne or fusilli. These shapes hold sauce well. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta is great too, if needed. I suggest making your Caesar dressing at home. It tastes fresher and is healthier. Use simple ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can control the flavor this way. If you prefer store-bought dressing, that works too. Just check the label for good ingredients. To spice things up, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also brighten the salad. A squeeze of lemon juice adds zing, too. {{image_2}} You can make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad fit many diets. If you want a vegetarian option, try substituting the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu. These choices add protein and keep it filling. For gluten-free options, swap rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer tasty alternatives that you can find at your local store. Let your creativity shine with flavor variations. You can add different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a twist. Using a unique dressing, like ranch or a spicy Caesar, can change the taste too. Don't forget to add more veggies! Try bell peppers or cucumbers for crunch. If you want extra protein, toss in shrimp or bacon bits. Each change can make this salad a new delight! To keep your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad fresh, use an airtight container. Place the salad in the fridge right after serving. This helps keep it cool and safe. When you're ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold. If you prefer it warm, heat it gently in the microwave. Stir it well to heat evenly. In the fridge, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad lasts about 3 to 4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or the veggies look limp, it's best to toss it. Keeping an eye on your leftovers ensures you enjoy the best flavors and texture. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of flavors and textures. It includes rotini pasta, cooked chicken, and fresh romaine lettuce. You also add cherry tomatoes, red onion, and creamy Caesar dressing. The dish is topped with Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons. This salad is a complete meal in one bowl. It offers protein, veggies, and carbs, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare the pasta and chicken in advance. You can mix the salad and dressing a few hours before serving. Keep it in the fridge until you're ready to eat. Just remember to add the croutons right before serving. This keeps them crunchy and tasty. You can serve many side dishes with Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Garlic bread pairs well and adds warmth. A light soup, like minestrone, also works nicely. You could serve extra veggies or a fruit salad for a fresh touch. These options complement the salad and make a balanced meal. This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is simple and fun to make. You mix rotini pasta, chicken, vegetables, and Caesar dressing to create a tasty meal. Adding your twist with different flavors is easy. You can use veggie options or try new dressings. Remember, store any leftovers well. This keeps your meal fresh and safe to eat. Enjoy the balance of flavors in this dish, whether you're serving it for lunch or dinner. Now, go ahead and make this delightful salad to impress your friends and family!

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Dive into this delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad that's perfect for any gathering or a quick weeknight dinner! This easy recipe combines rotini pasta, tender chicken, crisp romaine, and zesty Caesar dressing for a refreshing twist. Learn how to whip up this flavorful dish in just 25 minutes and impress your family and friends! Click through for step-by-step instructions and serve up something special tonight!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced

1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

½ cup Caesar dressing

¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Croutons (for topping)

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, diced chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

      Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then gently toss everything together until well coated.

        Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the salad and toss again to distribute evenly.

          Serve the pasta salad in individual bowls or a large serving platter, topped with crunchy croutons for added texture.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4