This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty twist on the classic salad. With juicy chicken, crunchy romaine, and pasta, it’s filling and packed with flavor. The creamy dressing ties it all together!
Add in some croutons for that extra crunch—because who can resist? I love taking this to picnics; it always disappears fast!
It’s super easy to make, just cook the pasta, mix in the ingredients, and enjoy! Perfect for lunch or a refreshing dinner any time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fusilli Pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta holds dressings beautifully. If you don’t have fusilli, you can swap it with penne or rotini. They’ll work just as well for the salad.
Chicken: I love using leftover cooked chicken for convenience, but rotisserie chicken is a great option too! You can also use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but you could also use mixed greens if you prefer. Spinach could also work, though it wilts more easily, so add it last.
Caesar Dressing: You can use store-bought dressing for ease, but homemade dressing adds a special touch. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of lemon juice and garlic for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty flavor. If you’re out of it, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative. Nutritional yeast can be used if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Keep My Pasta Salad from Getting Soggy?
Preventing soggy pasta salad is key for enjoying great texture. Rinsing the cooked pasta in cold water, as mentioned in the steps, helps stop the cooking and cools it down. Here are some more tips:
- Use pasta cooked to al dente. This means the pasta should be slightly firm when bitten.
- Avoid adding the dressing until just before serving and store the salad without it if making ahead of time.
- Try to add crunchy toppings like croutons right before serving to keep them crisp.
How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup Caesar dressing
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup croutons
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or additional Parmesan for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook the pasta. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for up to an hour for a refreshing dish. Total time is about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the fusilli pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, the cooled fusilli pasta, sliced or shredded chicken breast, and croutons. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing with olive oil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of your salad.
4. Combine with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Be careful not to crush the lettuce or croutons while mixing!
5. Add Cheese and Toss Again:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad. Toss it one more time lightly to make sure the cheese is well distributed throughout the salad.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese on top for a nice finish. Serve immediately or cover and place it in the fridge for up to an hour before serving for a chilled experience. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!
Can I Use Different Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If fusilli isn’t your favorite, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions for the best texture.
How Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the chicken and dressing ahead of time to save on prep time. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to toss everything together to ensure the salad stays fresh and crunchy!
What Can I Substitute for Caesar Dressing?
If you’re looking for a healthier or different option, try using a yogurt-based dressing or a homemade vinaigrette. A simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of mustard can also work well and give a nice tang to the salad.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the croutons will soften, so for the best texture, add them just before serving. Give the salad a quick toss to refresh it when ready to eat!
