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.
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!