Description
A delicious blend of classic Caesar salad flavors with tender chicken and pasta, perfect for meal prep and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) rotini or penne pasta
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped (about 8 cups)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup croutons, crushed (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, drain, rinse with cold water, and drizzle with olive oil to avoid sticking.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Pound chicken for even cooking, rub with seasoning paste, grill until cooked through, slice into strips.
- Make the Caesar Dressing: Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth, adjusting consistency with water as needed.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop romaine lettuce and halve cherry tomatoes.
- Assemble the Salad: Combine pasta, chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and dressing in a large bowl, toss gently.
- Final Touches: Chill salad for 30 minutes, then toss and serve.
Notes
This salad can be prepared ahead of time. Store dressing separately to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg