Description
A quick, hearty, and refreshing pasta salad featuring tender pasta, juicy chicken, creamy dressing, and crunchy bits, perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or light dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz rotini, penne, or bowties (Short, ridged shapes are best.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (Grilled, rotisserie, or leftover chicken works well.)
Vegetables and Add-Ins
- 4 cups romaine lettuce (Crisp hearts provide the best crunch.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (Optional but adds sweetness.)
- 1 cup croutons (Homemade or store-bought for texture.)
Cheese and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly shaved for salty richness.)
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (Homemade or your favorite bottle.)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (For seasoning.)
- to taste salt and pepper (Simple seasoning.)
- 1 lemon lemon juice (For a clean, bright finish.)
Optional Boosts
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (Optional for added flavor.)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumbers (For additional crunch.)
- 1/4 cup red onion (For a mild bite.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and cool slightly.
- Season and cook your chicken if it is not already cooked. Slice or shred.
Assembly
- Toss warm pasta with half the dressing so it absorbs flavor.
- Add chicken, romaine, tomatoes, and Parmesan. Toss with more dressing to coat.
- Finish with croutons and a squeeze of lemon. Add more dressing if the pasta soaked up too much.
Notes
Use a spoon of pasta water to thin thick dressing. Salt your pasta water generously and toss while the pasta is still slightly warm for better absorption. Keep extra dressing on the side for those who prefer a saucier salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Salad
- Cuisine: American