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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad with bacon and croutons in a white bowl
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Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Friend, this is what happens when classic Caesar salad and pasta salad team up and decide to show out. You get juicy chicken, crunchy romaine, parmesan, and a creamy Caesar dressing that coats every bite. I’ve made enough pasta salads over the years to know the difference between one that dries out and one that stays creamy, and this one holds up every time. You know I’m not here for bland pasta salads, so you're in for a treat!
Course dinner, lunch
Cuisine American
Keyword cesar pasta salad, chicken caesar pasta, chicken Caesar pasta salad, chicken pasta salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 3 servings
Calories 488kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rotini pasta
  • 10-12 ounces cooked chicken Diced into cubes or sliced into strips.
  • 4 cups chopped lettuce
  • 3 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
  • 2-3 tablespoons Grated Parmesan
  • 3-5 tablespoons Caesar Salad Dressing see notes to make it high protein
  • Croutons
  • Ranch Seasoning to taste Optional

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta in accordance with the instructions on the package. While it cooks prep the remaining ingredients.
  • Combine the pasta, bacon, chicken, lettuce, cheese, and optional ranch seasoning in a large bowl.
  • Drizzle with salad dressing. Toss and sprinkle croutons throughout.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

I add ¼ to ½ cup plain Greek yogurt to make the dressing high protein. 
I like to cooked the bacon and the chicken together in a skillet on the stove. This adds even more flavor to the chicken.
This is the type of dish that is simple to modify to suit your taste. You really don’t need measurements. Once you have the key ingredients and any substitutions you want to add, make the dish your own. Adjust things to suit your preferences and taste.
If you know you want to make it ahead or eat leftovers, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Toss the salad with the dressing just before eating to maintain the best texture.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 488kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 25g