This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is fast, fresh, and oh-so-tasty! Cook up some pasta, toss in juicy chicken, crunchy romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing for a delicious meal.
It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. I love to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top because, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer rotini or cavatappi for this salad because their shapes hold the dressing well. If you don’t have those on hand, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work just fine!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make for a lean protein choice. You could also use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Shredded chicken is also great for adding flavor.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds a nice crunch, but you can swap it out for mixed greens or spinach if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that the flavors will be slightly different.
Caesar Dressing: Store-bought dressing is quick and easy, but if you’re feeling adventurous, a homemade version using mayo, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovies can take this salad to the next level!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the dish. In a pinch, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky. The key is to not rush it! Here’s how to ensure juicy chicken every time:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding oil. This promotes a nice sear.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper all over to enhance flavors.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side without moving it around too much. This helps develop a good crust.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this allows juices to redistribute.
This method keeps your chicken tender and full of flavor, perfect for adding to your pasta salad!
Quick 20-Minute Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini or cavatappi pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup croutons
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, then another 10 for assembling everything together. A quick, tasty dish that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it’s cooked but still firm. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to add flavor. Carefully place the chicken into the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
3. Preparing the Salad:
Once the chicken has rested, dice or slice it into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, chicken pieces, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently to mix it well, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients.
4. Final Touches:
Add in the croutons for that perfect crunch. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish. Serve your salad immediately for the best taste and texture!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!
FAQ for Quick 20-Minute Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using shredded or diced leftover chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, can save you time and add extra flavor to your salad. Just mix it in with the pasta and other ingredients.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and consider adding some extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or chickpeas for protein. You can also use grilled tofu for added texture!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep components ahead of time! Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving to keep the lettuce and croutons crunchy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid adding the croutons until you’re ready to serve the salad again.
