Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad brings together the best of crisp greens creamy dressing and comforting pasta in a way that always feels satisfying Whether you are packing it for a picnic or tossing together a simple weeknight meal this combination becomes a fast favorite — even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds

When I first served this at a summer barbecue people kept going back for just one more scoop It is now the must have addition to our family celebrations

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and hold their juiciness when pan seared Choose breasts that are about the same size to ensure even cooking
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: wake up every flavor Use freshly cracked pepper for a bolder taste
• Olive oil: helps brown the chicken breasts Choose a fruity olive oil for flavor
• Uncooked pasta: absorbs the creamy dressing best Use a sturdy shape like rotini or penne and look for pasta that turns just al dente
• Roma lettuce hearts: add crunch and freshness Dark outer leaves will give the most robust flavor and stay crisper
• Caesar dressing: delivers the classic creamy tang You can use your favorite bottled version or homemade for even more punch
• Parmesan cheese: lends a nutty salty bite Shave it fresh for extra flair
• Butter: gets the breadcrumbs crisp and golden Quality butter will give more flavor
• Garlic: brings warmth and zest Choose fresh cloves that feel firm not soft or sprouting
• Panko breadcrumbs: make the most crave worthy topping They toast up light and extra crisp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry and sprinkle both sides with fine sea salt and several cracks of black pepper This step infuses flavor deep into the meat and helps moisture stay sealed inside

Sear and Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat Lay chicken breasts in the hot pan Let them cook without moving for 6 to 7 minutes on each side The goal is a golden sear and juicy center After cooking let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices before slicing into thick strips

Cook the Pasta:

Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt Bring to a boil Add uncooked pasta and stir occasionally Cook until the pasta is just al dente This ensures it will hold up in the salad and not go mushy Drain immediately and rinse well under cold water to prevent overcooking and to cool for the salad

Prep the Lettuce and Cheese:

Roughly chop Romaine lettuce hearts into bite size pieces Wash and dry thoroughly wet leaves will water down the dressing Use a vegetable peeler or grater to shave Parmesan cheese and set aside for topping

Combine Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl add the cooled pasta chopped lettuce sliced chicken and Caesar dressing Use a gentle tossing motion to coat everything without bruising the greens

Make Garlic Breadcrumbs:

While the salad rests melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat Add minced or pressed garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until very fragrant Tip in the Panko breadcrumbs Cook stirring frequently until breadcrumbs are deep golden and crisp Remove from heat and sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper to finish

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the garlic breadcrumbs and plenty of shaved Parmesan cheese over the tossed salad right before serving This keeps the topping crisp and ensures savory bits in every bite

Pin it

Every time I make the topping my kitchen fills with the best toasty aroma All my favorite family moments around this dish involve people sneaking handfuls of crumbs before we even sit down

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days If making ahead keep the dressing and breadcrumbs separate and toss everything together just before serving This helps the lettuce stay crisp and the topping stay crunchy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap grilled or rotisserie chicken for the stovetop version in a pinch For a vegetarian spin use drained canned chickpeas instead of chicken If you do not have Romaine try baby kale or crunchy iceberg Pasta shapes like farfalle or shells also work beautifully

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad on its own for a balanced meal or alongside grilled corn or juicy tomato salad It packs up nicely for work lunches potlucks or even as a picnic star Top with extra lemon zest or capers for a tangy kick

Cultural Context

Chicken Caesar salad is a beloved classic American dish that got its start in Mexican border towns adding pasta makes it even more comforting for a crowd This hybrid version feels both retro and totally modern on the table

Pin it

This is a craveable salad you will want to bring everywhere and it always disappears fast I still remember my son piling his plate with extra Parmesan and the look of pure satisfaction on his face This recipe is a keeper for a reason

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep cooked chicken juicy?

Rest the chicken after cooking to lock in juices and slice just before tossing with other ingredients.

→ Can I prepare garlic breadcrumbs ahead of time?

Yes, store cooled garlic breadcrumbs in an airtight container for up to 2 days before using.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Short shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing and combine well with other ingredients.

→ Is homemade Caesar dressing necessary?

Bottled Caesar dressing works well for convenience, but homemade can add fresher flavors if desired.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add breadcrumbs fresh for extra crunch.