Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

This chicken Caesar pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for weeknights or potlucks. It features pasta, chicken, and a tasty Caesar dressing, with homemade croutons adding a nice crunch.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Keyword chicken caesar pasta salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings 8 servings

Calories 540kcal

Author C. Sophie

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large Skillet
Cutting Board

Ingredients

Pasta

16 oz medium shell pasta

Chicken

3 cups diced, cooked chicken breast

Lettuce

3 cups sliced romaine lettuce

Croutons

2 cups store-bought or homemade croutons

Cheese

1 1/2 cups grated and shaved parmesan cheese

Dressing

2 1/2 cups homemade or bottled Caesar dressing
4 cloves finely chopped garlic
4 anchovy filets, rinsed and finely chopped (optional)
2 Tbsp drained and chopped capers
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
1/4 cup whole milk

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta for 1 minute longer than package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool.
Rub chicken breasts with vegetable oil, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear in a large skillet over medium-high heat until deeply golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Prepare the Caesar dressing by whisking together oil, garlic, anchovy filets (if using), capers, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth. Whisk in mayonnaise until well combined, then whisk in grated parmesan and whole milk.
Combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, sliced romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese in a large bowl.
Pour the prepared Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Tip: Let the preparation cool completely before sealing containers to limit condensation and preserve texture.