Description

Easy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines juicy seasoned chicken, tender pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, and a zesty homemade Caesar dressing for a fresh, satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¼ teaspoon salt (for chicken)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)
½ teaspoon dried dill (for chicken)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken)
6–8 ounces pasta (such as cellentani, penne, or bow tie)
2 heads romaine lettuce, sliced (yielding about 6–8 cups)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup croutons (or breadcrumbs, if preferred)
¾ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons capers, including their brine
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon salt (for dressing)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dill, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5-10 minutes, then dice into ½-inch pieces.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers with brine, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt until smooth and creamy.

5. Place the drained, cooled pasta in a large serving bowl. Add the sliced romaine lettuce and diced chicken.

6. Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to coat evenly.

7. Top the salad with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons. Toss again lightly to distribute.

8. Serve immediately for best texture. Croutons will soften if the salad sits too long.

Notes

For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.

Adjust the dressing by adding more lemon juice or Dijon to taste.

Use toasted breadcrumbs in place of croutons for a finer texture.

Best served fresh. If making ahead, add lettuce and croutons just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400 kcal