Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
372 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Salad
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Cuisine
American
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Description
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad features grilled boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into chunks mixed with al dente penne pasta, chopped romaine, fresh cucumber, shredded carrot, thinly sliced green onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory note to the mix. Optional croutons contribute crunch to the overall tender and crisp textures.
The salad is dressed with Caesar salad dressing, which coats the ingredients in a creamy, tangy layer that balances the mild flavor of the chicken and veggies. Tossing everything together allows the dressing to meld with the pasta and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor and moisture of the salad.
This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it suitable for casual meals or packed lunches. Including the cheese and dressing gives it a satisfying richness that pairs well with simple sides or as a standalone dish.
Make-ahead is supported by cooking and chopping ingredients in advance and adding dressing only when ready to serve, preserving texture and freshness. Storing the salad in an airtight container for up to two days is possible, but it's best when fresh. Substitutions like gluten-free pasta and dressing accommodate dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast grilled, boneless skinless
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 medium size cucumber , chopped
- 1 carrot , shredded
- 1/4 cup green onion , thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomato halved
- 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 1/2 cup croutons (optional)
- caesar salad dressing , to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain water and set aside to cool.
- Chop the grilled chicken breasts into small chunks.
- In a large bowl toss together chicken, cooked penne pasta, lettuce, cucumber, carrot, green onion, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese and croutons.
- Drizzle with desired amount of Caesar salad dressing and toss to coat.
Notes
- Prep chicken and chop vegetables ahead to save time before assembling.
- Add dressing only when ready to serve to keep ingredients crisp and prevent sogginess.
- Store pasta salad in an airtight container for up to two days; keep lettuce separate if prepping for meal prep.
- Gluten-free versions can use gluten-free pasta, dressing, and croutons.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 372 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 372kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 43g | 14% |
| Protein | 34g | 68% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Trans Fat | 0.01g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 80mg | 27% |
| Sodium | 330mg | 14% |
| Potassium | 930mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 7201IU | 144% |
| Vitamin C | 24mg | 27% |
| Calcium | 130mg | 13% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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