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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Easy Home Cooking
This hearty and refreshing salad combines grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, al dente pasta, homemade parmesan croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing for the ultimate warm-weather meal or potluck favorite.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 5
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Parmesan Croutons:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic grated
  • 2 cups bread cut into 1/2 inch cubes (gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmigiano reggiano parmesan
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Grilled Chicken:
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, pounded thin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Caesar Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream or plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk
  • 1 clove garlic grated
  • 1 anchovy fillet chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmigiano reggiano parmesan
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Salad:

  • 8 ounces pasta
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce sliced
  • 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano parmesan, grated or shredded or shaved

Instructions
 

  • Mix oil and garlic, let sit, then strain out garlic.
  • Toss bread with garlic oil, parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  • Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, stirring once, until golden.
  • Season chicken and grill or pan-fry for 4–6 minutes per side.
  • Let rest, then slice.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/chicken-caesar-pasta-salad/

Notes

  • This salad can be prepped ahead; store dressing separately and toss before serving.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
  • Try bowtie, penne, or rotini pasta for extra texture.