The Caesar salad is a timeless classic, known for its crisp Romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. While this iconic dish has graced dinner tables and restaurant menus for decades, adding pasta and tender chicken takes it to a whole new level. Enter the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: a hearty, satisfying dish that combines the best elements of the original Caesar salad with the comforting chew of fusilli pasta.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Caesar salad but craves something more substantial. The creamy, umami-packed Caesar dressing clings to each twist of pasta, while juicy, pan-seared chicken adds protein and makes it a complete meal. And let’s not forget the homemade croutons—golden, crunchy, and flavored with garlic and Parmesan, they’re an essential finishing touch that elevates the salad.

Whether served as a main course for lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a centerpiece at a potluck, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is guaranteed to impress. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and flavors—crisp, creamy, tender, and savory—that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bread Croutons:

• 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 cups bread, cut into ¾-inch (2cm) cubes
• 2 tbsp (10g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 pound/450g), pounded to ½-inch (1cm) thickness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil, for cooking

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 anchovy fillets
• 1 tsp (5g) Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
• ½ tsp (3g) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ cup (110g) extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp (10g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 7 oz (200g) fusilli pasta
• 1 head Romaine lettuce, about 5-6 cups, chopped
• Parmesan cheese shavings, for garnish

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

How to Make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Croutons

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss 2 cups of bread cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove until evenly coated.
3. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook 7 oz (200g) of fusilli pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Season 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
4. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 4: Make the Caesar Dressing

1. In a small bowl or blender, combine:
   • 2 minced garlic cloves
   • 2 anchovy fillets
   • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
   • 1 tbsp lemon juice
   • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
   • 1 egg yolk
2. Slowly whisk in ½ cup olive oil while continuously blending or whisking until the dressing thickens and emulsifies.
3. Stir in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine:
   • The cooked pasta
   • Chopped Romaine lettuce
   • Sliced chicken
   • Half of the croutons
2. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Garnish with the remaining croutons and Parmesan cheese shavings.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Caesar salad is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. Adding pasta and chicken transforms it into a complete, satisfying meal that balances protein, carbs, and greens. This dish’s versatility is part of its charm—it works as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even as meal prep for the week.

Homemade Caesar dressing elevates the flavor far beyond store-bought options, while homemade croutons add a fresh, crispy touch that you just can’t get from a bag. The addition of pasta and chicken ensures that this salad isn’t just an appetizer—it’s the star of the meal.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Pound the Chicken Evenly: Pounding the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots.
3. Cool the Pasta: Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to keep it from wilting the lettuce.
4. Customize the Croutons: Experiment with different seasonings like paprika or Italian herbs for a unique twist.
5. Make Ahead: Prep the dressing, croutons, and chicken in advance to save time on busy days.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
Yes, store-bought dressing is a convenient option, but making it from scratch takes the flavor to the next level.

2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Fusilli is ideal because its twists hold onto the dressing, but penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta are great alternatives.

3. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and anchovies in the dressing. Add roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu for a protein boost.

4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons separate to maintain their crunch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing, croutons, and salad components separate and assemble just before serving.
• Freezer: The components of this salad (chicken, croutons, and dressing) can be frozen individually, but the assembled salad doesn’t freeze well.

Conclusion

The Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is proof that classic recipes can always be reinvented. By adding pasta and chicken to the traditional Caesar salad, this dish becomes a hearty, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The homemade croutons and dressing ensure that every bite bursts with flavor, while the combination of textures keeps things exciting.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this salad has you covered. Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity, versatility, and undeniable deliciousness. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to fall in love with this modern twist on a classic favorite!