This chicken Caesar pasta salad will be the star of your next summer BBQ! But don't just reserve it for special occasions, this yummy pasta salad tastes amazing all year round!
1headromaine lettucerinsed, dried, and chopped (optional)
1cupcroutonsoptional, for serving
freshly shaved Parmesan cheeseoptional, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions for al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse, and toss in a large bowl with olive oil; set aside.
8 ounces dry rotini pasta, ½ tablespoon olive oil
While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Melt the butter in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to the bowl with the pasta and allow it to cool. Alternatively, you can use leftover cooked chicken here.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
In a small bowl, mix together salad dressing, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and cheese. Toss with the pasta, chicken, and tomatoes. Cover and chill at this point, if desired.
¾ cup Caesar salad dressing, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup quartered grape tomatoes
If serving as a salad, divide the lettuce between 4 bowls, then top with the cooled pasta salad. Serve garnished with croutons and shaved Parmesan, if desired.
1 cup croutons, 1 head romaine lettuce, freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
Notes
You can use any kind of short-shape pasta you like.
Feel free to swap the chicken breasts for thighs or pre-cooked shredded chicken.
You can add other chopped veggies to this pasta salad, or try adding crumbled cooked bacon!
Chicken is fully cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F.
Storage: Store chicken caesar pasta salad separately from the lettuce and croutons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving.