Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Elevate your salad game with this irresistible Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad—a delightful fusion of bold Caesar flavors and hearty pasta that’s perfect for any occasion. Toss together tender penne pasta, juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, sweet grape tomatoes, and crunchy croutons, all coated in creamy Caesar dressing for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing. A generous topping of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of optional fresh parsley add the perfect finishing touches. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that works equally well as a light main course or a side dish at picnics, potlucks, or family dinners. With its combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is sure to become your next go-to favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups romaine lettuce
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.75 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup croutons
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes, sliced chicken, and croutons.
Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss once again.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving for a cooler option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2528 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.8 g | 68% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.0 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 340 mg | 113% | |
| Sodium | 4874 mg | 212% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 336.1 g | 122% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.5 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 21.1 g | ||
| Protein | 175.4 g | 351% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 618 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 18.4 mg | 102% | |
| Potassium | 2255 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
