Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: A Perfectly Creamy and Hearty Meal

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad brings together the best of both worlds: a classic Caesar salad combined with the comforting texture of pasta. The juicy chicken breast, crisp romaine lettuce, and al dente pasta are coated in a rich, creamy Caesar dressing, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With the addition of crispy bacon and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad is both filling and refreshing, making it a great option for lunch, dinner, or a crowd-pleasing side dish at a gathering. You can substitute the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein, and add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
  
  

• 2 large chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
  
  

• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  
  

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  
  

• 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
  
  

• 1/4 cup sliced red onion (optional)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling the chicken)
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
   
   

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
   
   

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced chicken.
   
   

4. Add the Caesar dressing and toss to coat evenly.
   
   

5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, and sliced red onion (if using). Toss again to combine.
   
   

6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
   
   

7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 35g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 38g
  
  

• Fiber: 3g
  
  

• Sugar: 4g
  
  

• Sodium: 550mg