Description

A refreshing and hearty Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combining tender cooked chicken, al dente pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. This salad is topped with garlicky breadcrumbs and fresh parsley for a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor, perfect for a light lunch or picnic meal.

Ingredients

Pasta and Chicken

8 oz pasta (penne, bowtie, or fusilli), cooked al dente
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or sliced

Salad

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Caesar Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
Olive oil (to emulsify, amount as needed)

Garnish

½ cup garlicky breadcrumbs or crushed croutons
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Cook pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain it and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
Cook chicken: Season the chicken breasts as desired and cook by grilling, baking, or pan-frying until fully cooked through. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then cube or slice into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare lettuce: Wash, dry thoroughly, and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces for freshness and crunch.
Make dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and anchovy paste if using. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify and create a creamy Caesar dressing.
Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating.
Add toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle the garlicky breadcrumbs or crushed croutons and chopped fresh parsley over the top to add texture and fresh flavor.
Serve: Serve the salad cold, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for added zest.

Notes

For best texture, ensure pasta is rinsed with cold water after cooking to prevent further cooking and clumping.
Chicken can be cooked using any preferred method: grilling adds a smoky flavor, while baking or pan-frying are convenient alternatives.
Anchovy paste is optional but provides an authentic Caesar dressing taste; omit for a milder flavor.
Garlicky breadcrumbs can be homemade by toasting breadcrumbs with garlic powder and olive oil or substituted with crushed croutons.
This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 1-2 days for freshness.