why make this recipe
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a tasty and satisfying dish. It combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad with the heartiness of pasta, making it a great option for lunch, dinner, or potlucks. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for those who want a filling meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
how to make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or tenderloins, diced
- 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning (like cajun, lemon pepper, etc.)
- 8 strips bacon (diced)
- 1 lb. short pasta like rotini or fusilli
- 12 oz romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1/2 cup parmesan (freshly shredded, plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup garlic butter croutons (partially crushed)
- 1 teaspoon salad supreme seasoning, or to taste (Perfect Pinch brand)
- 1/2 cup caesar dressing
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 small garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Directions:
- Season chicken pieces liberally on all sides with your desired seasoning, like cajun or lemon pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy on both sides, then remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the grease. Remove most of the bacon grease from the skillet.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the pasta and cook to al dente according to package instructions. Strain the pasta in a colander and rinse it with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, crispy bacon, parmesan cheese, salad supreme seasoning, and dressings. If you plan to have leftovers, do not add the croutons or romaine to the entire bowl as the romaine will wilt and the croutons will get mushy.
- To serve, top with some extra parmesan and salad supreme seasoning.
how to serve Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Serve the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature. It’s great on its own, but you can also pair it with some garlic bread or a light dessert.
how to store Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you have added the croutons, they may become soft, so it’s best to add them fresh just before serving.
tips to make Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- For a quicker option, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or olives can enhance the flavor and add some color to the salad.
variation
Consider adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also use different types of pasta, like penne or macaroni, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them when you’re ready to serve. This helps keep the romaine lettuce and croutons fresh.
2. Can I use a different type of dressing?
Absolutely! You can use any dressing you prefer, but Caesar and ranch pair well with the other flavors in this salad.
3. What can I use instead of bacon?
You can leave out the bacon for a lighter version or substitute it with turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative.
