Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad 

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious twist on the classic Caesar salad, perfect for lunch, picnics, or potlucks! Creamy Caesar dressing coats tender pasta, grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and savory parmesan, creating a refreshing and satisfying salad. Quick to prepare, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

• 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup croutons (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2–3 tbsp water, to thin (if needed)

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.

3. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cooked chicken, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.

4. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Serve: Sprinkle croutons on top just before serving for extra crunch. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrients (per serving, estimated for 6 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 18 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Saturated Fat: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugars: 2 g

• Sodium: 450 mg