Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A delightful blend of flavors featuring rotini pasta, shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, and cherry tomatoes in a creamy Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 8 ounces rotini pasta You can swap rotini for any pasta shape you prefer.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or substitute with canned tuna.
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Fresh cherry tomatoes enhance the dish.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing Consider a lighter version if preferred.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can be a cheese substitute for dairy-free options.
To Serve
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to your liking.
- croutons (optional) Top with croutons for added crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Once ready, drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix well.
- Serve immediately, topping with croutons if desired.
Notes
For best results, use fresh ingredients and store pasta and dressing separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess. Consider additional toppings like avocado, cucumbers, or bell peppers for extra flavor.