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Lena's Kitchen

Lena's Kitchen

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Home » Weeknight Meals » Salads

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Posted: May 16, 2025 by lena gladstone | Updated: May 16, 2025

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is what I reach for when I want comfort food that still feels fresh. It’s got juicy chicken, crisp romaine, and plenty of flavor-packed homemade Caesar dressing.

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Overhead shot of chicken caesar pasta salad with caesar dressing and toasted panko breadcrumbs on the side.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a total crowd-pleaser and one I make all the time! Here’s why this recipe works:

  • Everything You Love in One Bowl: Juicy chicken, crispy romaine, garlicky Caesar dressing, and pasta—it’s like your favorite salad and pasta dish got together. It’s just as tasty as this Chicken Cobb Salad.
  • Big Flavor, No Fuss: Using rotisserie chicken and store-bought or homemade Caesar dressing keeps it easy without skimping on flavor.
  • Crunch That Counts: The Toasted Garlic Panko Breadcrumbs are my secret weapon. They add the perfect crispy, buttery bite.
  • Great Hot or Cold: Whether it’s straight from the fridge or served fresh, this salad always hits the spot—and the leftovers are even better the next day.
Closeup shot of chicken caesar pasta salad with bowtie pasta and fresh romaine lettuce.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please come back and give it a rating. I ❤️ hearing from you!

Overhead shot of ingredients to make chicken caesar pasta salad at home.

Ingredients

  • Bowtie Pasta – This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy Caesar dressing. Its fun, bite-sized form makes every forkful feel hearty and satisfying.
  • Romaine Lettuce – Crisp, refreshing romaine adds the classic crunch and freshness you expect in a Caesar salad, balancing out the richer ingredients.
  • Rotisserie Chicken – Tender, juicy, and super convenient, rotisserie chicken adds protein and makes this salad a complete meal. Breast meat is ideal for clean, bite-sized pieces.
  • Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing – Tangy, creamy, and full of umami, this homemade dressing brings the whole salad together. It’s loaded with bold flavors from garlic, lemon, parmesan, and anchovy.
  • Toasted Garlic Panko Breadcrumbs – These golden, crispy breadcrumbs give a delicious crunch in every bite. Toasted with garlic, they’re a bold upgrade from traditional croutons.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano adds sharp, salty richness that melts beautifully into the salad for that unmistakable Caesar flavor.

For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.

Instructions

Cooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta in a serving bowl.
Shredded chicken on top of bowtie pasta along with romaine lettuce to make chicken caesar pasta salad.
  1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
  2. Shred Chicken and Lettuce: Tear or chop the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the romaine lettuce. Add to large bowl with cooked pasta.
Toasted panko breadcrumbs on top of lettuce, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta to make chicken caesar pasta salad.
Freshly shaved parmesan cheese along with toasted breadcrumbs, romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, and cooked pasta to make chicken caesar pasta salad at home.
  1. Toast the Breadcrumbs: Toast garlic panko breadcrumbs until golden and crispy, then let cool completely. Toss onto the pasta salad bowl.
  2. Shave the Parmesan: Finely grate or shave the parmesan cheese and add to the pasta bowl.
Caesar dressing on top of romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, shaved parmesan cheese, bowtie pasta and toasted breadcrumbs to make chicken caesar pasta salad at home.
Freshly made Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, ready to serve.
  1. Make and Add Dressing: Prepare the Caesar dressing and drizzle it over the chicken pasta salad bowl.
  2. Toss and Serve: Toss everything to combine, and serve immediately.

For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.

Overhead shot of chicken caesar pasta salad in a large serving bowl, along with homemade dressing in a mason jar.

Substitutions & Variations

Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations:

  • Greens: Romaine is the classic base, but feel free to mix in kale, baby spinach, or arugula for a more nutrient-dense twist and extra variety.
  • Dressing: Homemade Caesar dressing is always my go-to, but if you’re short on time, use your favorite store-bought version.
  • Breadcrumbs: Toasted garlic panko adds great crunch, but croutons, crispy chickpeas, or roasted nuts are fun swaps that bring new textures to the salad.
Chicken caesar pasta salad with toasted breadcrumbs on top.

What to Serve with Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Main Dishes

  • This chicken Caesar pasta salad makes a perfect side for grilled meats and seafood. We love serving it with Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Vegetables or grilled salmon kabobs for a fresh, flavorful combo.
  • It’s also delicious next to Oven-Cooked New York Strip Steak—the creamy Caesar dressing balances the rich, juicy steak beautifully.
  • For something a little lighter, try it with Panko Crusted Salmon for a crispy, satisfying pairing that’s great for lunch or dinner.

Soups

  • This pasta salad also pairs well with a warm, comforting bowl of soup. We love it with Easy Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup—the creamy broth and sausage work so well with the Caesar flavors.
  • It’s also great with a classic Roasted Tomato Soup or a bold, cozy creamy chicken tortilla soup for a complete, satisfying meal.
Overhead shot of chicken caesar pasta salad served in a bowl with a fork.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this salad?

I love using bowtie pasta (farfalle) because it holds the dressing well and adds great texture. That said, rotini, penne, or shells also work perfectly.

Can I use another type of chicken?

Yes! While rotisserie chicken keeps things quick, grilled or baked chicken breasts work great too. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before adding it to the salad.

Do I have to use anchovies in the dressing?

Anchovy fillets deliver the best flavor, but anchovy paste is a great substitute. If you’re not a fan of anchovies at all, you can skip them or swap in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a similar savory depth.

What cheese should I use in the dressing and salad?

Look for high-quality cheese labeled Parmigiano Reggiano—it has a richer, saltier flavor than generic Parmesan and really elevates the salad.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing and breadcrumbs separate until just before serving. This helps prevent soggy lettuce and keeps the panko nice and crunchy.

What’s the best way to store Caesar dressing?

Store your homemade Caesar dressing in a sealed jar, bottle, or container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 1 week.

A hand holds a fork with chicken caesar pasta salad.

More Salad Recipes You’ll Enjoy

  • Butter Lettuce Salad – This Butter Lettuce Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing is my go-to for fresh, feel-good meals. Crisp lettuce, charred corn, crispy prosciutto, and a creamy herb-packed dressing make it irresistible.
  • Lemon Basil Pasta Salad – Made with a bright and herbaceous medley of orzo pasta, summer vegetables, and a simple oregano and white wine vinaigrette, it’s a must-have at any potluck or picnic.
  • Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad – This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is light, healthy, and summery! It combines tender pasta with homemade pesto, juicy grilled chicken, and fresh mix-ins for a satisfying meal any time of the day.
  • Rotisserie Chicken Salad – This Rotisserie Chicken Salad makes the best quick and easy meal! With tender shredded chicken, sautéed leeks, and a creamy yet tangy dressing, it’s flavor-packed and comes together in just 10 minutes. 

If you try this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!

Overhead shot of chicken caesar pasta salad with shaved parmesan cheese on top.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

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Prep Time: 15 minutes mins
Cook Time: 10 minutes mins
Total Time: 25 minutes mins
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Lena Gladstone
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This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is what I reach for when I want comfort food that still feels fresh. It’s got juicy chicken, crisp romaine, and plenty of flavor-packed homemade Caesar dressing.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups bowtie pasta, or your favorite type of pasta cooked
  • 2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 ½ cups rotisserie chicken, torn
  • ⅓ cup Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing, or more to taste
  • 1 cup Toasted Garlic Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta first. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt to taste. Once the water is boiling, add in the pasta and cook until it is al dente. This should take approximately 11-12 minutes or see the box for instructions.
  • When the pasta is done cooking, drain and rinse it thoroughly with cold water. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the dressing and remaining ingredients.
  • Now make the Toasted Garlic Panko Breadcrumbs. Set aside to cool completely.
  • Make the Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing.
  • Then chop the heads of romaine lettuce and add to a large bowl.
  • Take the rotisserie chicken apart, for this recipe I like using the breast. You can cut it into bite size pieces or tear it.
  • Finally, assemble the salad by adding the pasta into the bowl with the lettuce, along with the chicken, toasted panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated parmesan cheese, and then pour the dressing on top of the pasta salad.
  • Toss to fully combine, then serve the salad and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, in the fridge, for up to three days.

Notes

Storing Caesar dressing: Store in a sealed container, jar, or bottle for up to a week.
Anchovy replacement: Use anchovy fillets as they result in a better flavor, but anchovy paste is also great. If you’re not a fan of anchovies, then you can substitute the fish with Worcestershire sauce for a similar savory flavor.
Cheese options: High-quality cheese is what will take this dressing to the next level. Try to find cheese that is labeled as Parmigiano Reggiano rather than just Parmesan.
Storing Breadcrumbs: Transfer the panko to a freezer-safe bag or container once cooled. They should last for up to 1-2 months this way.
 
If you enjoyed this recipe, please come back and give it a rating. I ❤️ hearing from you! 
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chicken caesar pasta salad

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 858mg | Potassium: 610mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 18309IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 296mg | Iron: 3mg

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Hi, I’m Lena Gladstone, the recipe developer and food photographer behind Lena’s Kitchen. Here you will find approachable food recipes to share with the whole family. Keto friendly, weeknight dinners all made with fresh ingredients. Click here to learn more!

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