Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Step-by-step instructions

Now onto the fun part—making your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic powder, anchovy paste, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Set the dressing aside to meld those flavors.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool.
While the pasta is cooling, wash and chop the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, chopped lettuce, and croutons. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the freshly made Caesar dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss until everything is well coated in that creamy goodness.
Transfer the salad to a serving platter and feel free to garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for that extra touch.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, consider these delightful options:

Serve it chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Pair it with garlic bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
Plate it elegantly in individual bowls and top each serving with extra croutons and freshly grated Parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.

How to store & freeze

Storing your leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious pasta salad later.

Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld and can enhance the taste.
Freezing: While freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the dressings and lettuce, you can freeze any leftover unassembled pasta and chicken (without the dressing and fresh greens), which can extend their usability.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some tips to make your Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad even better:

Make-ahead: Prepare the dressing a day in advance for deeper flavors. Just give it a good stir before using.
Pasta variety: Penne is fantastic, but fusilli or rotini can hold the dressing well too.
Freshness: Use fresh Romaine for the best crunch, and consider adding cherry tomatoes for a splash of color and sweetness.

Creative twists

Feel free to put your spin on this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad! Here are some variations to explore:

Herbed chicken: Use grilled lemon-herb chicken for an aromatic upgrade.
Add veggies: Incorporate roasted red peppers or sliced avocado for a nutritious boost.
Gluten-free: Swap the penne for gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!

Frequently asked questions

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes about 15-20 minutes for prep, and cooking the pasta usually adds another 10 minutes. Overall, you can expect it to be ready in about 30 minutes.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! If you don’t have anchovy paste, you can leave it out or replace it with Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor. You can also use a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The pasta salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, enjoy it within a day after preparation. Store the dressing separately if you need it to last longer.