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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Flavorful Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Ready in 30 Minutes

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick and delicious meal that combines juicy chicken, pasta, and fresh veggies, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Rotisserie chicken works for quicker prep.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds richness while cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the chicken's flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds a savory depth to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides a hint of smokiness and color.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a touch of warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle) Serves as the hearty base.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Creamy base that offers rich texture.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Gives a savory cheesy flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Caesar Salad Dressing Key component for classic Caesar taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Adds tang and enhances overall taste.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Fresh flavor to boost the dressing.
For the Salad
  • 4 cups Chopped Romaine Lettuce Provides freshness and a crisp bite.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Adds sweetness and acidity.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Offers a sharp, colorful contrast.
  • 1 cup Croutons Bring in crunch; keep separate until serving.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Colander
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and reaches 165°F. Let it rest and then dice.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth. Adjust consistency with milk as needed.
  4. Combine cooled pasta, diced chicken, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss gently, then add lettuce, tomatoes, and onion. Fold to mix carefully.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and dressing to cling better.
  6. Before serving, toss in croutons for added crunch. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, add lettuce and croutons just before serving to maintain crunch. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers to prevent sogginess.

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