Looking for a dish that perfectly blends comfort and freshness? Dive into the delightful world of Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad! This vibrant, satisfying recipe combines tender rotini pasta with juicy diced chicken and a zesty Caesar dressing, making it an irresistible choice for lunch or dinner. With just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up a meal that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a hearty salad, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the secret to this crowd-pleasing dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. If using uncooked chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center, about 6-7 minutes. Let cool and dice into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Use a large spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly without breaking the pasta.
- Season the salad with additional salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced taste.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing main dish or side salad.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to cook the rotini pasta until al dente. This will give your salad a nice bite and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
- Chill for Flavor: For the best taste, allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Customize Your Chicken: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. Just shred or dice it and toss it in with the rest of the ingredients!
- Add Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding some crunchy croutons or toasted nuts just before serving. They’ll provide a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique twist.
- Dressing Control: If you prefer a lighter salad, start with half the amount of Caesar dressing and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of creaminess.
- Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
