Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Serves 8 | Perfect for Potlucks
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
This creamy, satisfying Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines all the flavors of your favorite Caesar salad with hearty pasta and tender chicken. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for summer barbecues, potluck dinners, and meal prep. With crisp romaine, juicy chicken, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons all tossed in a rich homemade Caesar dressing, this pasta salad will be the star of any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb penne or rotini pasta
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups seasoned croutons
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Caesar Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Chicken Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and slice: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside to cool.
Make the Pasta Salad:
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
- Make dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, anchovies, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine ingredients: Add cooled pasta, sliced chicken, chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl with dressing.
- Toss and chill: Mix everything together until well coated with dressing. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Final touches: Just before serving, top with additional Parmesan cheese, croutons, and fresh parsley.
Make-Ahead Tips
This pasta salad actually tastes better the next day! Prepare everything except the croutons up to 24 hours in advance. Add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch. Store leftover dressing separately if you prefer less saucy pasta salad.
Storage Guidelines
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may need a splash of extra dressing or lemon juice after a day or two as pasta absorbs moisture. Do not freeze as the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta salad works perfectly as:
- Main dish for lunch or light dinner
- Side dish for grilled meats at barbecues
- Potluck contribution that serves a crowd
- Meal prep option for busy weekdays
- Picnic food that travels well
Nutritional Benefits
- High protein: Chicken provides complete amino acids for muscle health
- Complex carbs: Pasta offers sustained energy
- Calcium: Parmesan cheese supports bone health
- Vitamins A & K: Romaine lettuce adds essential nutrients
- Antioxidants: Cherry tomatoes provide lycopene
Recipe Variations
Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese Bacon Caesar: Include crispy bacon bits for extra flavor Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt in place of half the mayonnaise Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing
