Combining the best of two worlds, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a delicious fusion of classic Caesar salad and a hearty pasta dish. This recipe brings together tender pieces of seasoned chicken, perfectly al dente penne and the fresh crunch of romaine lettuce, all tossed in a rich and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1lb of penne
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 boned, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 2/3 cup Caesar dressing
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper
Method of cooking:
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil.
Add the penne and cook until al dente according to the packet instructions.
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set to one side.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder and a generous pinch of kosher salt.
Cook the chicken in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
Remove from the heat and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, halved grape tomatoes, freshly grated Parmesan and croutons.
Add the sliced chicken to the bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the Caesar dressing, lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
Season to taste with freshly ground black pepper.
Transfer to a serving dish or individual plates.
Garnish with parmesan, parsley and croutons if desired.
