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Salads are often seen as light, side dishes, but the Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad flips this notion on its head, transforming a classic Caesar salad into a heartier, more satisfying meal. This innovative recipe fuses the creamy, tangy essence of Caesar dressing with the comforting texture of pasta and the smoky flavors of grilled chicken. Ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also brimming with fresh ingredients that make each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking to elevate your lunch routine, this salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Discover a delicious twist on a classic with this Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. This hearty meal combines creamy Caesar dressing with wholesome pasta and succulent grilled chicken, creating a satisfying dish perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Loaded with fresh veggies like crunchy romaine lettuce and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Easy to make and customizable, this salad will elevate any meal and impress your guests.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup croutons

1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken and season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

      Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature registers at 165°F (75°C). Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

        Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken pieces, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss the ingredients together with tongs or a large spoon until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

            Serve: Transfer the salad to a large serving bowl or divide it into individual plates. For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and croutons on top. Enjoy this delicious and refreshing Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings