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The Ultimate Quick & Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes)

A close-up of a creamy chicken caesar pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, romaine lettuce, chicken pieces, and croutons.
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Make this simple, creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad quickly. It combines cooked chicken, pasta, crisp romaine, and a rich Caesar dressing for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

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  • 12 oz rotini or farfalle pasta
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded or cubed chicken breast
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup store-bought Caesar dressing (for shortcut)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup croutons or toasted breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly. Set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the quick creamy Caesar dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the store-bought Caesar dressing, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, and chopped romaine lettuce.
  4. Pour the creamy Caesar dressing mixture over the pasta and chicken. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to combine. This step is important for cold pasta salads.
  7. Before serving, toss the salad again. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and croutons or toasted breadcrumbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For faster preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
  • If you prefer a homemade dressing, skip the store-bought Caesar and use 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, and salt/pepper to taste.
  • This salad works well for lunch meal prep; add croutons just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/chicken-caesar-pasta-salad-recipe/