Description
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic Caesar salad. It features tender pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, flavorful chicken, and a creamy homemade dressing, making it a perfect meal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Dressing:
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or your choice)
- 2 hearts of romaine lettuce, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- Shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped cooked chicken breasts
- Croutons (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and anchovy paste until well combined. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Assemble Salad: Add the chopped romaine lettuce and chicken to the bowl with the pasta. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve: Top with croutons (if using) and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Pasta Choice: Use your favorite type of pasta for this salad. Rotini, penne, farfalle, or fusilli are all good options.
- Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breasts and chop them.
- Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons can be used. If making your own, cut bread into cubes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until golden brown.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The croutons may become slightly soggy if added in advance, so it’s best to add them just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 280kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
