Description
A quick and nutritious High-Protein Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp romaine, and a creamy homemade Greek yogurt Caesar dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner, this salad offers a flavorful and protein-packed meal in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed (grilled, baked, or rotisserie)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Pasta & Vegetables
- 8 oz dried pasta (fusilli, farfalle bowtie, rotini, or penne)
- 1 cup sweet cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 romaine hearts, chopped
Dressing & Cheese
- ¼ - ⅓ cup shredded parmesan cheese (adjust to preference)
- ⅓ - ½ cup healthy Caesar salad dressing (Greek yogurt based preferred)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, pulling it about 60 seconds early to ensure perfect texture.
- Rinse and cool: Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all the Greek yogurt Caesar dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, and pepper as needed. Store-bought dressing can be used but homemade provides more protein and no mayo.
- Season the chicken (optional): If desired, toss the cubed cooked chicken with a splash of balsamic vinegar in a separate bowl to enhance flavor.
- Combine: In a large serving bowl, add the cooled cooked pasta, cubed chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine, and shredded parmesan cheese.
- Dress: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the salad and add more dressing, salt, pepper, or parmesan cheese according to your preference.
- Chill and serve: For optimal flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, or enjoy immediately if preferred.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds convenience.
- Rinsing pasta under cold water stops cooking and prevents sticking.
- Adjust the amount of dressing and parmesan cheese to your taste for creaminess and flavor balance.
- Refrigerating before serving enhances the flavor melding but it can be served right away.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American