This chicken Caesar pasta salad is one of those recipes I make on repeat. It’s creamy, fresh, filling, and so easy to throw together. You get juicy chicken, crisp romaine, tender pasta, and that classic Caesar flavor in every bite. It feels fancy, but it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight.
It makes about 6 servings and takes around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I made this, I had leftover grilled chicken in the fridge and half a box of pasta in the pantry. I didn’t want plain salad, and I didn’t want heavy pasta. So I mixed the two. The result? This creamy, crunchy, savory bowl of goodness that disappeared fast.
Now I make it for potlucks, quick dinners, and even meal prep.
Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- It’s filling but still feels fresh.
- You get protein, carbs, and greens all in one bowl.
- It tastes even better after it sits for a bit.
- It’s easy to customize with what you have.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
This recipe works because it balances texture and flavor. The warm, seasoned chicken adds savory depth. The rotini pasta holds onto the creamy Caesar dressing in its twists. The romaine gives crunch and freshness, which keeps the salad from feeling heavy. The Parmesan adds saltiness and umami, which boosts the overall flavor.
The key is letting the pasta cool before mixing. If it’s too hot, it wilts the lettuce and makes the dressing too thin.
What You’ll Need
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (about 4 cups dry)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- 3/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 12 ounces rotini pasta and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Cook according to package directions, about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain in a colander and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Pat dry 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts. Rub them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Step 3: Chop the Lettuce and Slice the Chicken
On a cutting board, chop 6 cups romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the rested, cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, add cooled rotini pasta, sliced chicken, 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce, 3/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup Caesar dressing. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Top with 1 cup croutons.
Pro Tips
- Let the pasta cool fully before mixing. Warm pasta will wilt the romaine.
- Rest the chicken before slicing so it stays juicy.
- Toss the croutons in right before serving to keep them crunchy.
- If making ahead, save a little extra dressing to stir in later.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Swap rotini for penne or bowtie pasta.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes for color.
- Mix in crispy bacon for extra flavor.
- Use light Caesar dressing if you want fewer calories.
Make Ahead Tips
You can cook the pasta and chicken up to 2 days ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The lettuce will soften a bit, but it still tastes great. Add a splash of extra dressing before serving to freshen it up.
Common Mistakes
- Mixing hot pasta with lettuce.
- Overcooking the chicken until it’s dry.
- Adding croutons too early.
- Not seasoning the pasta water.
What to Serve With
- Garlic bread
- Fresh fruit salad
- Tomato soup
- Grilled vegetables
FAQ
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes. Use about 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken and skip the cooking step.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free croutons.
Is this served warm or cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
Macros Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
This chicken Caesar pasta salad is simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and when you do, come back and tell me how it turned out for you. I’d love to hear your twist on it or answer any questions you have.